Mastering Range: How to Stay in Control on the Bag

One of the most underrated skills in boxing is range control—the ability to stay just close enough to land clean shots without overextending. In this drill, we use the heavy bag to help you build that skill dynamically, using forward and backward movement, the jab, and the one-two combo.

What You’ll Learn:

• How to use a straight arm to measure range

• The difference between a “basic” and “shuffle step”

• How to jab to maintain range

• When to throw the two-punch for max power

• Why being out of range ruins the jab and the two

Drill: Find Your Range with Movement and Punches

1. Set Your Range

Stand in front of the bag with your lead arm extended. Your fingertips should just touch the bag.

• Start gently pushing the bag so it swings.

• As the bag moves, shuffle back and forward to keep the same distance.

2. Jab to Control Distance

Remove the straight arm and begin using your jab to track your distance.

• Jab when the bag is in range.

• If you miss or slap the bag, reset feet and adjust.

3. Add the Two-Punch

Now, follow the jab with a clean two.

• Only throw the cross when you’re in range.

• Focus on full rotation and balance.

4. Flow with the Combo

Move back and forth with the bag, landing the one-two combo only when in range.

• Shuffle forward, jab, then two.

• Shuffle back, reset, and repeat.

Key Reminders:

• Use the jab as your guide, not just a punch.

• If your hand can’t touch the bag or is too deep into it, adjust.

• Your best two-punch happens when you’re balanced and in range—not reaching.

No partner? Push the bag yourself and get into a natural rhythm. With a partner, have them control the bag’s motion while you adjust your movement.

Train this drill a few rounds at a time, and you’ll start to feel the difference immediately. Once you control range, you control the fight.

– Coach E