An uppercut is a punch used in boxing that travels along a vertical line at the opponents chin or solar plexus. It is one of the two main punches that count in the statistics as power punches, along with the cross. Uppercuts are useful when thrown at close range, because they are considered to cause more damage. The uppercut is a powerful punch capable of delivering a knockout strike. It is usually thrown with an upwards motion and is effective at short range, but it can also be used at mid-distance. The punch is almost never used at long distance because it finishes up with the forearm perpendicular to the ground, which limits the distance you can target. Uppercuts can be thrown with either hand and can be targeted towards the head of the opponent. They can also cause damage when thrown to the body, particularly the solar plexus, or when landing on the nose or eyes. The uppercut is a difficult punch to land because it travels a long way from base to target, making it easy to telegraph and counter. Therefore, it should be used sparingly and only when there is a clear opening. Proper technique is essential when throwing an uppercut, and it should be set up by other punches first, such as jabs and straights.