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The driving force of the punch has as it's component the movement of joints located at the hip, knee, ankle and the trailing foot. There are two major foot joints that play critical rolls as well. The leading foot serves to stabilize the body and to catch the weight as the center of gravity is moved toward the opponent. This is the biodynamics of the punch.

Anyone can throw a punch...kids do it everyday, but in order to orchestrate a KO punch with maximum force and power, you will need to focus upon the lower extremity. Spectators focus on upper body motion and technique. The shoulder, elbow and upper torso get most of the photo exposure. This is well deserved and justified, however substantial power originates from the floor upward. The uppercut, hook and even the jab derive a portion of their power from the legs and feet. Placing the foot in a propulsive position will increase the force generated. This force moves up from the ground and is transmitted through the various bones and joints until it ends up at the end of your glove and into your opponents body.

It has been known throughout the history of boxing that a "flat footed" boxer is not punching efficiently. He is not moving around the ring efficiently either. The feet support the fighter and move him into position to land the punch or evade the opponent 's moves. What I do with my boxing patient is to first provide a supportive taping to the feet. We tape the hands...why not the feet? This foot taping is designed to hold the foot in a propulsatory position. As the fighter fatigues, you will notice he/she tends to rest more on the heels and the center of gravity shifts from the forward position to the backward position. This is common. However this places the fighter into a posture which does not allow for the most effective (power driving) punch.

Exercising certain lower extremity muscle groups with a high repetition regimen can dramatically improve stamina, power and speed. As with other sports (or even the general public), the feet are often times neglected in the area of exercise...so it is in the "ring" as well. The smart coach/fighter recognizes the importance of the feet and legs...and develops a training program to include this critical, yet often times overlooked area.

A specialized form of foot orthosis (custom prescription insole) can be made to assist the fighter in proper foot positioning. Unlike the common orthotic prescribed by most podiatrist, chiropractors and orthopedist, I add special modifications to the device which address the special biomechanical needs of the boxer. The end result is less foot fatigue/pain and a more effective punch dynamic.

Presently, I am collecting data on boxing related foot injuries and general foot pain. If you are a boxer and have foot pain, please send me as much information as you can...it will be much appreciated. As time permits, I will do my best to return your e-mails.

I welcome boxers as patients at my Ashtabula, Ohio office. I am available to give lecture presentations to boxing related groups/organizations.

Please call 440-997-FEET (3338) or ( footpro@yahoo.com ).

In your corner,

Guy Del Prince, DPM