Boxing injuries: the most vulnerable part of your hand

When boxers or martial artists hear about hand problems, they immediately jump to the conclusion that it's the "boxer's break" or a fracture of the fourth metacarpal (the bone on the little-finger side of your palm).

But the truth is, there are many more thumb injuries caused by improper technique or preparation than there are breaks to the bones in the hand. The joint at the base of your thumb is vulnerable and easy to damage. If you hurt it, your training will suffer for weeks or months.

As a boxer, MMA practicioner, or fighter, you must take steps to protect your thumb.

• Learn how to throw the left hook -- both on the heavybag and against an opponent -- so you reduce the chance that you'll impact the thumb.


• Always wrap your hands -- including the base of your thumb -- when you work out and especially when you spar.


• Make a good fist and tuck your thumb underneath.

Don't damage your thumb. It's that simple.

Left hook: hold the fist vertical or horizontal?

That is the age-old question.

Many trainers tell you to hold your left hook vertically, like you're holding a coffee mug. You can see it in the picture.

Just as many trainers say to hold it horizontally, with the palm facing down.

Which is correct?

I don't think there is a "correct" way to throw the left hook; it all comes down to your personal preferences.

If you are sport-oriented -- you always use handwraps and boxing gloves -- then holding the fist horizontally is probably OK. But if you are more interested in bare-knuckle fighting, you should probably keep the fist vertical.

Good luck finding out which variation you prefer: it's a debate that isn't going away anytime soon!