Recently I was talking to a friend of mine who fights southpaw about the difficulties of translating combos from orthodox to southpaw. He was saying most combos are designed for orthodox fighters and don't necessary work for southpaws due to differences in positioning, distance and angles. He heard that Lanna Muay Thai was known for specializing in coaching southpaws. Anyone know of other instructors/camps that specialize in working with south paws, especially in the US, but abroad as well.
Especially in the USA -- Matee & Kwame Stephens.
I dont think your friend is correct. There is a lot of southpaw fighters in Thailand. There was a period where southpaw style was encouraged by trainers. I think most gyms atleast there can teach you. Boxing is different though because of the past
it isn't the combo's themselves that are particular to orthodox or southpaw, it is how they are applied differently depending on your opponent.
For instance, lets say you want to throw a 3 strike combo. Two punches and a round kick...
If your opponent is in the same stance as you, (orthodox v. orthodox, or southpaw v. southpaw), the combination JAB - CROSS - LEAD ROUND KICK is a very good choice.
But if you're opponent is in the opposite stance (orthodox v. southpaw), a better choice would be CROSS - HOOK - REAR ROUND KICK
All you need is a coach who understands how to adjust combo's and strategy to account for different stances. I'm an Orthodox fighter. I simply CANNOT fight from the Southpaw stance. But I understand a number of the differences in strategy that need to be employed and am therefore able to successfully coach my Southpaw fighters and students.
(mind you, I would NOT even try to mention my name in the same sentence as Matee or Kwame... I'm not THAT knowledgeable and experienced)
"(mind you, I would NOT even try to mention my name in the same sentence as Matee or Kwame... I'm not THAT knowledgeable and experienced)"
but IMO you ARE better looking.
that frightens me
sorry. I had to say something. you're just too F'in humble. you and Sambo Steve. it's a veritable HumbleFest. hence, the MMAmmys.
Well, when I do something worth bragging about, I'll be sure to post it for you...
LOL