When forward pressure is a BAD idea

The most overwhelming aspect of boxing is the incredible forward presure that an individual can deliver to an opponent. However, this does not mean that a boxer should always over commit with full bodyweight behind every movement. In some cases, driving too much forward with full commitment will yield extremely negative results.

Look at the elbow deflection movement used to handle a low jab or cross to the stomach. This is a relatively simple defensive movement that involves drifting the elbow of either the right or left arm away from the ribs and towards the center line to meet (nee deflect) a punch driving towards the mid-section. The operative word here is drift - not drive.

If you put all your body weight behind the elbow deflection and drive into the punch, you are committing weight when such a demonstrative movement is completely unnecessary. Additionally, if the punch is a FEINT and you drive forward with such committment, your head will be on a chopping block and ready for a massive knock out punch.

Sometimes a light touch is the better option.