One of the golden rules in combat sports, and even more so in self-defence, is to keep yourself protected at all times. Especially your chin, because that is what most people aim at. In this short video lesson I show a simple method to keep your chin as protected as possible: shoulders shrug up and chin down.

It is for boxers, martial artists and self-defence students at any level. Beginners need to learn it, and experienced people often need reminding of it.

Why the Chin Matters

The chin is the target most people go for, whether they are trained or not. A clean shot on the jaw is one of the most common ways people are knocked down or knocked out. You can be fit, strong and skilled, and still lose everything to one punch you did not see.

So protecting the chin is not optional. It needs to be built into how you stand and move, so that it happens without you thinking about it.

How the Shoulder Shrug Helps

When you bring your shoulders up slightly and tuck your chin down, two good things happen. The chin is harder to reach, because it is lower and partly covered. And the shoulder of your lead side helps to shield the jaw from the side, which is where hooks come from.

Keep in mind:

  • Shrug the shoulders a little, do not hunch so much that you lock up
  • Tuck the chin down, but keep your eyes looking forward
  • Keep your hands up as well, the shrug works with your guard, not instead of it
  • Stay relaxed so you can still move and strike

Common Mistakes

The most common mistake is doing it at the start of a round and forgetting it a minute later. The chin comes up when you get tired, when you punch, and when you get hit. Another mistake is tensing up so much that you cannot move freely. The position should be firm but relaxed.

How to Practise

Shadow box in front of a mirror and check your chin and shoulders constantly. On the bag, keep the position before, during and after every combination. With a partner, have them call out or tap you lightly when your chin comes up. Keep any contact light and controlled. Over time it becomes your natural position.

Take It Further

Defence and good habits are covered from the very start in the Learn To Box Online Course. For self-defence, where protecting yourself matters most, see the Pressure Point Self Defense Course.