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Striking

Targeting

Once engaged in an unavoidable self-defence situation, every move the martial artist makes should be designed to stop the opponent from seeing, breathing or moving.

Computer - Sensory Systems
The eyes, ears, nose and head (brain/CNS) as a target.  Strikes and kicks targeted to this area in a real situation should aim at stopping the opponent from processing sensory information - disrupting his attack.

Life Support - Energy Systems
The entire torso as a target, with special reference to the floating ribs, solar plexus, throat, genital and kidney regions. Strikes, kicks and grappling techniques targeted to this area in a real situation should aim at disrupting the opponent's energy systems, reducing their ability to sustain an attack.

Mobility - Musculoskeletal Systems
The limbs as targets (both legs & arms, hands & feet). Strikes, kicks and grappling techniques targeted to this area in a real situation should aim at stopping the opponent from moving, thus preventing them from continuing their attack.


Guard Positions

The Closed Guard Position

The "closed guard position" is formed by raising both fists along your own centreline, so that one is slightly extended, and the other covers the face. The elbows are used to cover the ribs, and the body forms an angular crouch with the chin tucked in, to facilitate protection. The rear foot is slightly raised, and the knees bent, to facilitate mobility.

The Open Guard Position

The "open guard position" is formed by raising both hands so that the palms face the opponent in a "surrender" or "stop" gesture. The body is angled slightly to minimise targets. The weight is evenly spread across both feet, with knees slightly bent to facilitate mobility. The midsection is deliberately left open to draw an attack.


The Mixed Guard Position

The "mixed" or "high-low" guard position is formed by raising the rear fist to the level of the jaw while resting the lead arm across the midsection. The chin is tucked inside a slightly raised lead shoulder, and the body is angled diagonally relative to the opponent.


Striking Systems
There are four ways to generate striking power:


1. Sinking
This form of power is generated by lowering the hips on impact.

2. Hinging
This form of power is generated by rocking weight from the rear foot to the front foot.

3. Stepping
This form of power is generated by stepping through with the rear leg.

4. Twisting
This form of power is generated by torquing the hips and shoulders into the target.


Striking Tools
Based on the possible trajectories, there are five basic fist strikes:


Thrust : Straight Jab (or Cross)
The fist is sent straight out into a target following one's own centreline, twisting horizontally on impact. Open Hand Alternative - Finger Jab or Thumb Probe

Downward : Hammerfist
The bottom of the fist is brought down in a chopping action on a high target.
Open Hand Alternative - Knifehand Hammer or Downward Clawing Strike

Upward : Uppercut
The fist is turned so that the palm faces oneself, and is brought upwards into a target.
Open Hand Alternative - Cranehead Strike or Heel Palm Strike

Inward : Hook
The fist is swung in a circle to impact a target from the side. The shoulder and fist should remain level. Open Hand Alternative - Ridgehand Strike or Thumb-Knuckle Strike

Outward : Backfist
The fist is snapped out and back at a diagonal angle, impacting the target with the back of the fist. Open Hand Alternative - Knifehand Chop


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