Striking
The jab, cross and exit for MMA
A jab and rear straight make a useful first MMA combination because you can check your distance twice. The exit is a third action. Plan where your feet and guard will finish before adding speed.
The diagrams explain positions and decisions. Independent coach review is pending. Practise contact entries and finishes on mats with a qualified coach.
On this page
Illustrated checkpoints
- Find range. The lead straight reaches a pad without a lunge.
- Read the target. Throw the rear hand if the second pad is within reach.
- Exit balanced. Recover the hands and move into space with the feet apart.
Build the combination on one target
Start in a stance you can hold after a punch. Give the pad holder a lead-hand jab, recover the glove and send the rear straight if the target stays at the same distance. Let the rear hip turn without throwing your shoulders past the front knee. A clean first rep ends with both hands back and both feet under you.
Let the holder change the answer
If the second pad moves beyond reach, finish with a step out instead of leaning for the cross. If the holder walks close enough to smother the rear hand, cover, stop the punches and reset. When both pads stay in range, finish the pair and leave on the open side.
Progress without trading punches
Start with a stationary coach or pad holder. Next, let them take a small step between punches. Add a final, noncontact level-change cue only after you can recover your feet. A rear foot dragging straight behind the front foot is a sign to shorten the first step. Strike pads only and keep the exit lane clear.