The Perfect Technique (The Reverse Punch)
I have had the privilege to study Martial Arts for over four decades; with each different style; they specialize in several areas of the arts for example legs, blocks, punches, sweeps, take-downs and grab-arts. The results for combining the best of each art is; our unique way of fighting and the development of our own techniques.
Through these lessons we have learned; that the basic techniques are the key to the success of any Karate-ka. The Basics are the foundation of our knowledge (Punches, blocks, kicks, stances, balance and movements). My opinion; as learned during my martial arts journey is that the best technique is a basic “Reverse Punch” (Gyaku-zuki).
For many young martial artists a reverse punch is no more than an exercise to develop speed. A reverse punch is much more than that; as we become older in the art we will appreciate the effectiveness of this technique. In a scientific explanation supplied by; Dr. Emeric Arus, he describes the muscular Kinematic Chain in the execution of a reverse punch. “It is important to understand that in the major hitting, pushing and throwing executions, the first muscular region to be contracted is the pelvic girdle, then from the accumulated muscular force travels up to the shoulder, arm and finally to the fist; (from the ground up). Also at the same time starting with the execution of the body twisting the arm thrusting movement, the lower extremity muscle center also becomes an important part to stabilize the final thrusting action of the arm”.
I will explain a simple process to achieve an effective reverse punch. We start with a well balance position. In Sanchin Bushi we emphasize that a good fighting position is a side “horse stance” (Kiba Dachi). Any movement done in martial arts should be with good balance. Knees should be bent enough where if you look down you cannot see the toes of your feet. You should feel comfortable, relaxed and ready. By having a well balance position you become one with the floor/universe. You can use a reverse punch in any aspect of a fight (Zen, Zen-no-Zen, or Go-no-Zen). For an effective punch, we move forward using our front leg and at the same time our back-leg is pulled into position; we need to calculate the time and distance required in order to position ourselves close enough to the opponent where you can release the reverse punch without over extending your arm. Your front arm will be in your guard position and you will start releasing your back arm for the reverse punch (palm facing up). While your reverse punch is half way to the target, your pelvic girdle once connected to center of body w/(Hips) and moving the force of your balanced position from the floor through your hips, to your shoulder, down through your arm and finally to your fist. At the same time your fist is rotating to a palm down position from the palm up position. You want to hit your target with your first two knuckles. As explained in our Sanchin Bushi Training Manual as a reference; we will apply Newton’s Law of (Mass X Acceleration) = Force. The heavier a body part for example the pelvic region, the more force can be pushed into action, with correct posture and superior timing. Also the lighter the body parts for example the arm, the faster the execution. The smaller the target, energy is concentrated on a very small point like the two knuckles of your fist and with the amount of energy coming from behind the impact will be more devastating. The key to this process is to achieve all of these steps in one quick move. I like to complete the techniques with a “Kiai” releasing all of the energy generated during this action. By achieving this process the pain on the opponent will not just pass through but continues traveling through the opponent’s body until the pain overcomes his ability to continue the fight.
By applying a reverse punch technique you should maintain your balance; you should maintain your guard position; you should initiate the technique from a defense position straight into an offense movement. Or you can block your opponent’s technique and counter with the reverse punch. (It’s important to maintain your balance and stay in your position when countering) do not move back while you’re blocking. You can also do this technique at the same time that you are blocking your opponent’s technique (It’s important to achieve time and distance), with body connection to center of balanced striking stance.
If you come to think about it: How many techniques do you really need in a fight?
Just One & one you can effectively execute!
Joe Rodriguez
Shihan