Punching, Blocking and Kicking

The natural weapons are not only used for attacking but also for defending. An arm which is used as a striking weapon is s split second later converted into a blocking device. This must be borne in mind throughout karate training. One must be ready to attach, defend, attack, defend, in swift succession or even simultaneously, for example, one arm may be blocking a punch while the other arm is delivering a counter. Do not try this at the outset. Practice each technique separately and distinctly, but at the same time bearing in mind the possibility of combined attack and defense, as this is one of the most devastating and swift methods of dealing with an opponent. It is also the most difficult and rarely seen.

Punching:

The philosophy, if it can be so called; of most Japanese Karate punching is based on a similar notion to that of Kendo sword play: one good telling stroke. This is how a full point is scored in does count. Try, when practicing a punching technique, to make it always a good, solid one. Keep all the technical points in mind when training, with or without a partner. This will stand you in good stead throughout Karate training and will definitely help in winning competitions.

Key Points:

In punching, the elbow is straightened and the forearm extended. Striking with the hand involves bending and straightening the elbow. With the elbow as the pivot, the forearm moves as though one were drawing semi circles, but swiftly and free fully, making full use of the snap of the elbow.

Both the fist and the open hand are use, as in the back fist strike (Uraken Uchi), hammer fist strike, sword hand strike and so on.

It is unwise to extend the arm to its fullest when punching, or the leg when kicking for that matter, so always keep your arm form snapping out to the fullest range of the joint. This is not good for the joints. Also, you should adopt the habit early on of drawing back the striking arm so that it cannot be grasped by your opponent. Throwing methods are permitted in karate free styles, and some Karate men are also skilled in Judo. If they lay hands on your arm, you could do some unexpected travelling.

The elbow can also be used to strike. The arm is fully bent, and the elbow is aimed at the target. This is especially valuable for fighting at close quarters, when freedom of movement of the arms, legs or body has been lost, or when you are grasped from behind. The important point in striking is the use of the snap of the arm. There should be no strength in the shoulder, and the fist or fingers of the open hand should be tightly closed, Strike in a wide curve with maximum speed.