When shadowboxing, a boxer uses his imagination to simulate every circumstance encountered in the ring. In order to become skillful, a fighter must prepare himself for events that may occur in real-time.This includes the practice of defensive maneuvers, in addition to constructing various ways of attacking an opponent. A boxer, therefore, habitually performs a variety of training maneuvers while shadowboxing that make him ready to endure the rigors of competition.
Parrying
"Parrying" a punch means to force it away from your face with a quick and sharp blow from the palm of your hand. While shadowboxing, you must imagine an opponent's attacks, then deflect them with the appropriate parry. Parrying is an art that can be greatly improved when practiced while shadowboxing. When two right-handed boxers face each other, the most common parry is performed with the right hand. As your opponent throws his lead left-hand jab, the most-utilized punch in boxing, you turn it aside with a swift and short right hand push.
Body-Blocking
To block punches thrown at your body, you must practice some specific maneuvers during training. The most basic one consists of holding both elbows in tight to your sides, then leaning from the waist to the area being attacked. By bending into the punch, you do not allow it to extend to its most powerful point of impact. When shadowboxing, imagine that your opponent is spontaneously throwing body punches, just as one would during a fight. Practice leaning into the punches and dissipating the power of your adversary's attacks.
Slipping
To "slip" a punch means to avoid it by craftily and quickly by sliding your head to one side or the other. Slipping is primarily a maneuver used to dodge straight punches coming at your face. When shadowboxing, you must visualize punches coming at your head, then lean to the right or left in response. When you slip punches, aim to only move about 6 to 8 inches outside of your regular stance. Doing so will keep you in the ideal position to launch a counterattack, enhancing your ability to score and reactively inflict damage upon your opponents.
Rolling
The technique of rolling is, in some respects, similar to slipping. However, rolling requires you to duck underneath an attack, so that you come up on the other side, ready to punch. When shadowboxing, imagine your opponent throwing either a right or left hook. Step slightly to the same side of the punch, while bending your knees to slide the top of your head under its path. Maintain your regular stance, so that your body stays ready to strike at any moment.
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