Parrying

What is Parrying?

Parrying is a defensive technique used in combat sports such as boxing, kickboxing, and mixed martial arts (MMA) to deflect or redirect an opponent's attack, typically a punch, away from its intended target. Unlike blocking, which absorbs the impact of a strike, parrying involves using minimal force to guide the opponent's punch away, allowing for quick counter-attacks. Here are some key aspects of parrying:

1. Purpose:
   • Deflection: The primary goal of parrying is to deflect an opponent's punch away from its target, usually the head or body.
   • Setting Up Counter-Attacks: Effective parrying can create openings for immediate counter-attacks.
2. Technique:
   • Hand Movement: The hand is used to lightly push or guide the opponent's punch to the side or downward. This movement should be quick and precise.
   • Minimal Force: Parrying uses minimal force to redirect the punch, making it an energy-efficient defensive technique.
   • Timing and Precision: Successful parrying requires excellent timing and precision to effectively deflect the punch without getting hit.
3. Types of Parrying:
   • Inside Parry: Using the lead hand to deflect a punch inward, towards the centerline of the body. This is often used against jabs.
   • Outside Parry: Using the rear hand to deflect a punch outward, away from the centerline. This can be effective against straight punches or crosses.
   • Downward Parry: Using either hand to push the opponent's punch downward. This is usually used against straight punches aimed at the head.
4. Advantages:
   • Maintaining Position: Parrying allows fighters to maintain their stance and balance, keeping them in a position to counter-attack.
   • Energy Efficiency: Since parrying uses minimal force, it conserves energy compared to blocking or absorbing punches.
   • Creating Openings: By deflecting the opponent's punch, parrying can create openings for quick counter-attacks.
5. Training:
   • Drills: Fighters practice parrying through various drills, often using focus mitts or sparring partners to simulate punches.
   • Sparring: Parrying is also practiced during sparring sessions to develop timing and reflexes against a live opponent.
6. Common Mistakes:
   • Over-Parrying: Using too much force or making too large a movement can leave a fighter off-balance and vulnerable to follow-up attacks.
   • Telegraphing: Making the parrying motion too obvious or slow can allow the opponent to adjust their attack.
   • Neglecting Defense: Focusing too much on parrying can sometimes lead to neglecting other defensive techniques, such as slipping or blocking.

Parrying is a fundamental defensive skill in combat sports, helping fighters avoid damage while setting up opportunities for effective counter-attacks. When combined with other defensive maneuvers like slipping, bobbing, and weaving, it makes a fighter much harder to hit and more effective in the ring.

Related Article: Kickboxing: The Dynamic Combat Sport that Combines Kicks and Punches