How to Throw a Punch in Self Defence
How to throw a punch? or How to Punch? are common questions often asked by beginners in street fighting and self defense. Frankly, there are many different ways to throw a punch. It really just depends on what type of punch you want to throw. In this article we will teach you how to throw one particular punch - the lead straight.
Before we can teach you how to punch, its very important that you first know how to make a proper fist. It's ironic how some of the most experienced fighters don't know how to make a proper fist. Improper fist clenching can be disastrous for some of the following reasons: (1) You can jam, sprain, or break your fingers; (2) You will destroy wrist alignment, resulting in a sprained or broken wrist and; (3) You'll lose significant power when striking. To make a proper fist, make certain that your fingers are tightly clenched and that your thumb is securely wrapped around your second and third knuckles. You fist should look resemble a solid "flat" brick. Remember, if you can't make a proper fist, there is no way you are going to be able to know how to punch.
The Lead Straight Punch
The lead straight is a linear punch thrown from your lead arm and contact is made with the center knuckle. This is how to throw the punch! To execute the lead straight punch, quickly twist your lead leg, hip, and shoulder forward. Snap your blow into the assailant's target and return back to the starting position. A common mistake is to throw the punch and let it deflect off to the side. Punching targets for the lead straight include: nose, chin, and solar plexus. Keep in mind that there are many ways to develop punching power with your lead straight.
When you throw the punch remember that your line of initiation should always be your line of retraction. Avoid arcing or dropping your blow. Such sloppy body mechanics will throw you off balance, minimize your impact power, and open you up for a possible counter attack. You can practice the lead straight punch a a variety of martial arts equipment, the punching bag is one of them.
NOTE: Never ever strike another person unless it is legally and morally justified in the eyes of the law. If you violate this common sense rule you will most likely end up having to deal with the police.
Here are some other important key point to consider:
' When you throw a punch, remember to simultaneously tighten your fists upon impact with your selected target. This action will allow your natural body weapon to travel with optimum speed and efficiency, and it will also augment the impact power of your strike.
' Don't telegraph your punch. Telegraphing means unintentionally making your intentions known to your assailant when street fighting. There are many subtle forms of telegraphing which must be avoided when you throw a punch in a street fight. Here are just a few: (1) Cocking your arm back prior to punching or striking; (2) Tensing your neck, shoulders or arms prior to striking; (3) Widening your eyes or raising your eyebrows; (4) Shifting your shoulders; (5) Grinning or opening your mouth; (6) Taking a sudden and deep breath.
' When you throw a punch, be certain not to lock your elbow. Elbow locking is a common problem among novices. There should always be a slight bend in your elbow as the tool impacts with its target. Remember, if your elbow locks upon impact, it will have a pushing effect and rob you of critical power.
' Visualization is another power tool for learning how to throw a punch. Visualization is the purposeful formation of mental images to improve your combative performance. As a matter of fact this natural and relatively simple exercise serves many purposes: (1) It improves your general reaction time; (2) It develops "cleaner" psycho-motor skills; (3) It improves your confidence; (4) It helps cultivate the Killer Instinct; (5) It helps you maintain motivation during tough workouts; (6) It improves shadow fighting workouts.
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Adam Khan www.Argos-Sports.com get more fitness articles at www.circumpolarchamber.com link to Circum Polar Chamber and get a free link from PR6 page