Analysis of boxing tactics: A comparison of single and combination punching between three weight divisions
Author
James, Matthew
Date
2014Type
Thesis
Publisher
Cardiff Metropolitan University
Metadata
Show full item recordAbstract
The analysis of recorded boxing matches carries the potential to identify differences between
weight divisions. The aim of this study was to provide comparison between three weight
divisions; based on the use of technical elements of the bouts. A specifically designed
notation system was used to record single and combination punches used; accompanied by
additional variables such as target area and outcome. A Sample of 30 male, elite level
orthodox style boxers was used; these included, 10 from the lightweight division, 10 from the
middleweight division and 10 heavyweight division. Six punch types were confirmed in order
to obtain raw data, at that point the specific variables could then be drawn.
A series of Kruskal Wallis H (KWH) tests were used to compare the variables between weight
divisions. Subsequent Mann Whitney U (MWU) tests were then employed to compare pairs of
weight divisions to observe if there was a significant effect of weight division according to the
KWH.
Results showed that irrespective of what weight division the boxer were situated in; there was
a tendency to attack the opponent, as opposed to using a counter attacking strategy.
Furthermore, boxers within all three weight categories preferred to target the opponents
head rather than the body. Possibly the most patent discovery was that the overall frequency
of punches displayed by heavyweight boxers was considerably less than the two lower weight
divisions. With regards to combination punching, the lightweights demonstrated the greater
variety, with the 8 main combination types accounting for the minority of their combinations
used. The findings evidenced that although boxers from different weight divisions seem to
employ different tactics (punch type, target area etc.), there is no significant difference
between the outcomes of punch selection within those tactics.
The data emphasises the differences between weight categories as well as highlighting the
significance of throwing more punches within combinations in order to increase your odds of
winning.
Description
DEGREE OF BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (HONOURS)
SPORT COACHING
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