Flash Mitts: Reaction Punching Drill

The holder hides the mitts behind the back and flashes them in different positions; the puncher must react with the right punch before they disappear. It trains reaction time, decision making and accuracy.

How to play

1. In pairs, agree on the code: mitt turned sideways means a hook, mitt facing forward means a straight punch, mitt palm-down means an uppercut (3 min).
2. Learning round (1 min each): the holder shows the mitts slowly and holds them for two seconds.
3. Round 1 (90 s each): the mitt appears for one second; the puncher may only hit while it is visible.
4. Round 2 (90 s each): the holder flashes one or both mitts and the puncher answers with one or two punches.
5. Scoring round (2 min each): the holder counts hits (right punch, on time) and the pair records its best score.
6. Wrap-up (2 min): pairs share which position was hardest to read and how they learned to anticipate it.

Rules

• The holder never pushes a mitt toward the puncher's face or hits with it.
• If the mitt has already disappeared, do not punch.
• Use technical punches at 50-60% power without lunging forward.
• Keep one arm's length between partners.

Variations

Adaptations

• For limited mobility, play seated and the holder stays within arm's reach.
• For students with low vision, use brightly colored mitts and the holder adds a key word.
• Students who master it hold for a new partner to give more variety.

Learning goals

• React quickly to a visual cue.
• Choose the right punch for each mitt position.
• Work with a partner to help them improve reaction time.

Equipment for a class of 25

• focus mitts (pairs): 13
• foam gloves (pairs): 13

Teacher tip

Teach holders not to telegraph with their shoulders. The typical puncher mistake is lunging at the mitt, so cue the punch to start from the guard without taking a step.

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