Training Through Habits: Keeping the Guard Up in Boxing & Filipino Martial Arts

One of the toughest habits to build — and keep — in striking arts is maintaining a proper guard. In this session, I’m working with a student who comes from a karate background and is now training with me in Filipino martial arts. He naturally favors a more open and relaxed style, but as you’ll see, this creates clear opportunities for counters when the hands drop. In Muay Thai and boxing, keeping the guard high (jawbone or eyebrow level) is critical for defense. Despite consistent reminders, corrections, and drills, this habit still slips — and that’s the reality of training. It takes time, repetition, and the right methods to make it stick. I’d like to open this up for discussion: 👉 What approaches do you use to train your students to keep their hands up? 👉 What drills or coaching strategies have worked best for you? Join the Progressive Arnis community and be part of the conversation: 🌐 ProgressiveArnis.com 📸 Instagram: @ProgressiveArnis 🤝 Connect with GM Chad Bailey on Instagram: @ChadB305 If you’re interested in learning more about Filipino Martial Arts or training with us, reach out and become part of our growing community. ⸻ #ProgressiveArnis #TheTravelingLakan #FilipinoMartialArts #MartialArtsTraining #BoxingDrills #MuayThaiTraining #MartialArtsCoaching #KeepYourGuardUp #FightIQ #TrainingHabits #ChadB305