“In the preceding pages is given a system of Boxing as generally practised by the most celebrated pugilists of the present day; we shall now add Mendoza’s treatise on the subject, which, as the reader will observe, is comprised in a very short compass, and differs not very materially in general principles from the foregoing. The six lessons that form an essential part of his treatise are however well worth the notice of the reader, and an attention to them must be a very material help in acquiring a knowledge of the science.
The first principle to be established in Boxing (says he) is to be perfectly a master of the equilibrium of the body, so as to be able to change from a right to a left handed position; to advance or retreat striking or parrying; and throw the body either forward or backward without difficulty or embarrassment.”
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Worth reading through. Boxing, in the day, was much more like Mixed Martial Arts today. Recall Bill Ponder, a Chinese Kempo master, taught similar techniques. His interesting nuance was that everything was a feint, unless it could reach its target. If it was on target, then he would put energy into the last few inches of travel and put his hips in.
Works for me…
http://www.sirwilliamhope.org/Library/Mendoza/