Thinking on your feet

[El Kabong]

Yes but if you move like you are actually fighting then that will help it's better than just sitting there in one place and hitting it

[AdamGB]

You shouldn't be doing that any way :P

That develops range and footwork, what he's talking about is being able to think about a game plan whilst under pressure.

He wants to be able to be looking for his opponents weakness, his best shots, his worst shots, how he likes to defend... the whole picture and then how he can make it work for him.

Only way to be able to do that is to make footwork, defence and punching an instinct so your not conciously having to think about it so your head is free to go over strategys and tactics.

[El Kabong]

Well it's either that or target mitts......if you spar like that you can get rocked

[means2184]

i always have the mind set like your picking on your little brother ...like you jabbnin and faking him out and then pick your shots and hit him all fast ....its all in your head

[ThomasTabin]

i also think its important to dehumanize (that even a word?) boxing. how else can you get over the harsh reality inside the ring? when i fight, i fight as if i am fighting not an opponent, but boxing itself. as if i were trying to beat my best score. not making mistakes, setting up your shots, it isnt about getting the best over someone to prove how tough you are, playing the game is an end in itself.

[gyrokai]

Here's what I think,
If your technically sound, it sounds like this is a mental problem, more than physical
Of course, keep sparring,

BUT I'm also with Lyle

Shadowbox, but next time you shadowbox IMAGINE your in there with a KILLER, imagine everybody's watching, someone's yelling at you, the pressure is on...

Thats exactly what musicians do when they practice alone, they imagine they are under pressure, under the spotlite, in front of thousands...
... so when the time comes to step up... you are ready MENTALLY.