Learning the basics of the four main punches is an essential step for every new boxer. You may already know the jab, the cross, and the hook. The uppercut is the final core punch that every beginner should learn. It is powerful, versatile, and adds a whole new layer to your boxing combinations. In this guide, we will show you how to throw an uppercut for beginners with proper form, balance, and safety.
What is an uppercut
The uppercut is a vertical punch that travels from low to high. For beginners, learning how to throw an uppercut means understanding that it usually targets the chin or body of your opponent. Unlike the jab or cross, which move straight forward, the uppercut comes from below, which makes it harder to see and block. Even beginners can create a strong impact with an uppercut by using the legs and core correctly.
Step by step guide to throwing an uppercut
This step by step routine will help you master the basics of how to throw an uppercut for beginners safely:
- Start in stance
Keep your feet shoulder-width apart, with your knees soft, hands up, and chin tucked. If you are struggling and need more help, take a look at our guide on crafting the perfect boxing stance. - Bend the knees slightly
Drop your weight a little to load power into your legs. - Rotate the hips
Twist your hip and shoulder as you drive upward. The power comes from the core, not just the arm. - Keep the arm bent
Your elbow should remain close to your body with your forearm vertical. Do not swing the arm wide. - Drive upward with the punch
Aim to land with the front two knuckles as your body rises. - Return to guard
Pull the hand back quickly and reset your stance to stay protected.
Common mistakes when learning the uppercut
- Dropping the hand before the punch which telegraphs the movement.
- Overextending the arm which removes power and balance.
- Failing to bend the knees and load from the legs.
- Forgetting to keep the opposite hand tight to the chin for defence.
Avoiding these errors is crucial when learning how to throw an uppercut for beginners.
While it’s not an uppercut, this photo is the perfect definition of how not to throw punches. Dropping hands leaves you vulnerable to painful counters.
Simple uppercut drill for beginners
Stand in front of a mirror in your stance.
Bend slightly and throw a light uppercut, focusing on the hip and leg drive.
After each punch, reset to a guard position.
Repeat for one minute on each side.
This drill helps beginners learn how to throw an uppercut correctly by focusing on form and balance without the distraction of power.
Uppercuts can also be refined on the heavy bag. Try to add them to your heavy bag routine so they grow and become reliable tools in your boxing arsenal.
Adding the uppercut into combinations
Including uppercuts in combos is the natural next step once you know how to throw an uppercut for beginners with proper form. Once you feel confident, add the uppercut to simple beginner combinations, such as the jab, cross, lead, and uppercut. Another classic combination is a cross hook rear uppercut. These short combos help you see how mastering the uppercut can connect with other punches and prepare you for pad or bag training.
Final thoughts
The uppercut may look advanced, but with practice, it becomes one of the most effective punches in boxing. Learning how beginners can throw an uppercut properly is about using the legs and hips rather than swinging the arm. With regular practice, anyone can master how to throw an uppercut for beginners and build it into powerful combinations. Keep the punch compact, stay balanced, and protect your chin at all times.
If you have not yet chosen your first pair of gloves, check out our guide to the best boxing gloves for beginners so you can practice safely and with confidence. If you are still struggling, we recommend watching some tips and tricks for how to land the uppercut in boxing.
