Introduction to Elbow Blocks, Parries, and Weaves

This instructional segment introduces three fundamental defensive techniques used in boxing: elbow blocks, parries, and weaves. The instructor demonstrates these techniques with a partner to establish the foundational concepts that will be developed throughout the lesson.

The Elbow Block Mechanics

The elbow block is executed by extending the elbow at approximately 45 degrees to intercept incoming strikes. The defender positions the elbow to protect against hooks and body shots by angling it just enough to catch the attacker's forearm on bone rather than leaving openings. The block should be controlled and compact, avoiding excessive width that would compromise defensive coverage.

Parrying Technique and Waist Rotation

Parrying involves using the hands to redirect incoming punches while simultaneously rotating the hips in the opposite direction. When parrying a jab from the opponent's left hand, the defender moves their right hand to their left shoulder while rotating the waist counterclockwise. This hip rotation positions the defender to immediately launch counter-attacks while maintaining defensive integrity.

Sequential Parry and Counter-Attack Pattern

The sequence demonstrates parrying a jab followed by parrying a cross, with hip rotation occurring in opposite directions for each defensive action. After parrying the jab with clockwise rotation, the defender transitions to counterclockwise rotation to parry the cross. This alternating hip movement generates power and positioning for effective counter-attacks.

Weaving and Defensive Evasion

Weaving is an evasive footwork technique where the defender slips beneath incoming hooks by lowering their head and shifting their stance. The defender executes multiple weaves in succession to evade consecutive hook attempts while maintaining offensive readiness. Proper weaving technique requires keeping the head down and using lateral body movement rather than linear backward retreat.

The Advantage of Parrying Over Slipping

Parrying provides superior defensive timing compared to slipping because it actively redirects the opponent's strike, disrupting their balance and creating additional counter-attack opportunities. While slipping allows strikes to pass without contact, parrying diverts the opponent's momentum and extends the time window for the defender's counter-attack. This principle applies equally to both straight punches and hooks.

Complete Drill Sequence Breakdown

The complete drill combines all three defensive techniques in sequence: elbow blocks against hooks, parries against jabs and crosses, and weaves against additional hooks, followed by counter-attacks. The defender executes two elbow blocks, two parries, two weaves, and then counters with a right hook, left hook to the body, and left hook to the head. This integrated sequence develops fluid transitions between defensive positions and offensive responses.

Shadow Boxing for Technique Integration

After mastering the drill with a partner calling the combinations, practitioners should practice the sequence through shadow boxing to internalize the movements and timing. Shadow boxing allows the defender to self-direct the combinations, requiring them to visualize and anticipate opponent movements without external instruction. This independent practice cements the motor patterns and improves the ability to execute the techniques reactively in actual combat scenarios.

Training Recommendations and Practice Progression

Practitioners should first drill the combination with a partner providing consistent, predictable inputs before progressing to shadow boxing. The sequence should be practiced repeatedly until the transitions between defensive and offensive techniques become automatic and fluid. Regular practice of this drill develops the muscle memory and timing necessary for effective defense and counter-attack execution in practical boxing situations.

Technique of the Elbow Block, the Parry, and the Weave

World Class Boxing Channel

Standard Elbow Block

3 min read·9 key moments·PT7M20S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to Elbow Blocks, Parries, and Weaves
•The Elbow Block Mechanics
•Parrying Technique and Waist Rotation
•Sequential Parry and Counter-Attack Pattern

Technique of the Elbow Block, the Parry, and the Weave. Tom Yankello of the @WorldClassBoxingChannel teaches you how to use elbow blocks, parries, and weaves by doing a drill where you throw a 1 2 hook. Then you throw a right hook to the body and then a left hook to the body. When the hooks to the body are being thrown, you will block those with your elbows. Tom eplains how to properly perform the elbow blocks. Then Tom explains how to parry when the right hand is thrown as well as how to counterpunch with the right hand or counterpunch with the left hook. Off the parrys, you then weave and come back with a right hand and left hook. Tom then explains the art of the parry and the punches. 0:00 Introduction 0:31 Elbow blocks, weaves, and parry's 1:00 Elbow Block Technique 2:40 The Art of the Parry 3:55 The Drill Full Speed Find Tom Yankello at: Email: [email protected] Website: www.worldclassboxinggym.com Phone: 724.513.7457 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tomyankello?lang=en Instagram: http://bit.ly/tywcbgig Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tomyankello/ Facebook Gym: http://bit.ly/tywcbgfb Twitter: http://bit.ly/tywcbgtw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-yankello-5bb88816/ SUBSCRIBE | https://www.youtube.com/c/WorldClassBoxingChannel Please let me know what you think of the video by leaving a comment below. I'd appreciate your support by liking and sharing the video. Thanks. Go to www.worldclassboxinggym.com to subscribe to my email list so that you'll be the first to know of many of the upcoming announcements I will be releasing! Thank you! PLAYLISTS AND BOXING SERIES Secret Moves in Boxing: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHlMp5Wh9xpSqDdgzBFSRZuOOrksdhtv6 Creating openings and set ups for knock outs: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHlMp5Wh9xpQ1koK4Jr8okK7BxSqDl6ac Vital Punching Targets: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHlMp5Wh9xpRNAAMFQaliwdinNGoFBhOi Boxing Film Study: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHlMp5Wh9xpRNAAMFQaliwdinNGoFBhOi Technique Builders: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHlMp5Wh9xpSCiKXaJRvin77CcAR5gmrm Mike Tyson Shifts, Switches and Set Ups: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHlMp5Wh9xpQlAhvozMTv1R_USHYc77Tz How To Defend And Counter A Left Hook: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHlMp5Wh9xpRqwMHBYgsWteawH11DdT0h How To Defend and Counter The Right Hand: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHlMp5Wh9xpR8fQDCHM_8hSZcqcU4lcPT Tom Yankello's Padwork Drills: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHlMp5Wh9xpTDLeUs-kQeCvt1s7jHAgJ9 Fight Like Lomachenko: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Jfv6d9JPAQ&list=PLHlMp5Wh9xpTKeIV0JY02CapMx5ZUqhAW

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about standard elbow block?

This video covers introduction to elbow blocks, parries, and weaves, the elbow block mechanics, parrying technique and waist rotation. It provides detailed instruction from World Class Boxing Channel.

How long does it take to learn standard elbow block?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 9-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.