Bobbing in kickboxing is essentially the same as bobbing in boxing from the perspective of what you do with your body. However, it differs in terms of the kinds of strikes you're trying to avoid -- meaning how you apply the movement can be very different. Although nobody ever won a fight just by bobbing, improving your proficiency with this attribute along with your other skills will make you more competitive in the ring.
Step 1
Stand in your normal kickboxing stance: feet apart, weight balanced and elbows protecting your ribs. Depending on your kickboxing style, you might have your fists raised by the face, or outward and partially extended in a Muay Thai guard.
Step 2
Watch for the attack to come in. If it's a punch, bobbing is most appropriate for hooks and other punches coming at the side of your head. Bobbing works for roundhouse, but not front or axe kicks. For either strike, only bob to defend against attacks to the head. Bobbing for body shots just puts your head where the foot or fist will be.
Step 3
Bend at the knees and compress your spine as you shrug your shoulders. Bring your hands up to the side of your head. Duck just far enough for the strike to pass over your head. Unless you're very fast, the result will often be a grazing blow that glances off your fists and forearms.
Step 4
Pop immediately back up into your regular stance. Be ready to slip backward or otherwise avoid your opponent's follow-up attack.
Tips and Warnings
- You'll get the most out of bobbing if you wait until the last possible second to dodge the blow. This maximizes your opponent's commitment and can make him overbalance. On the other hand, moving too late is a good way to get your bell rung.
References
- Bill Packer; Kickboxing Coach (dec); Bad Company Fight Team; Albuquerque, NM
- "The Tao of Jeet Kun Do"; Bruce Lee; 1975
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