Moving in Fighting Stance
Even if you’re interested only in pure self-defense, you should learn to move quickly and safely while in a fighting stance. The basic principle of movement while in a fighting stance is to start with the forward foot while pushing off with the rear foot, then close the step so you end up in the original stance.
Starting Position: Left-leg-forward fighting stance.
To
advance: Move your
left foot forward
while pushing off
with your right,
then bring your
right foot
forward to return
to a stable
fighting stance.
Keep your weight
evenly over both feet
(more on the balls
of your feet
than on your
toes); don’t lean forward as you
advance.
To go to the right: Move your right foot out, pushing off with your left, then bring your left foot in so you return to a stable fighting stance.
To go to the left: Move your left foot out, pushing off with your right, then bring your right foot in to return to a stable fighting stance.
To retreat: Move your right foot back, pushing off with your left foot, then bring your left foot back, returning to a stable fighting stance.
Tips:
Move with quick, shuffling motions, staying close to the ground.
Don’t hop!
Once you get a feel for the basic movement, practice moving along diagonal lines. These diagonals are what let you advance and retreat while staying out of reach of your opponent’s weapons (i.e., not being right in front of them).
Combatives Punch Mechanics
A straight punch can be made with the forward hand (usually called a “jab”) or the rear hand (a “cross”). The basic principles of the punch are the same for either hand. Although we sometimes use the term “jab” in this book because it is a familiar term to some readers, do not think of your forward-hand punch as a typical “jab.” That term implies a quick, less-powerful strike that is useful in sport fighting but not street fighting.
Starting Position: Left-leg-forward fighting stance.
Making a fist
Roll your fingers
tightly so that
there is
no
space.
Seal your
thumb tightly
over your fingers
near the
first knuckle. Do
NOT put your
thumb inside
your
fingers!
Left Straight Punch
Starting Position: Left-leg-forward fighting stance.
Driving with your
legs and
keeping your
elbow down as long as
possible, extend your
left fist forward. As
your hand travels
out, rotate
your shoulder
and hip
forward to add
power.
Make
contact with the
first two knuckles of
your fist,
rotating your fist
about 45 degrees to
add power. Be sure
your wrist
is straight.
The punch
should penetrate the
target, not
just touch the
surface. At
the moment
of impact, weight
should be in
the
punch.
Recoil quickly, bringing
your hand back to
starting
position.
Tips: Tuck your chin to your chest to protect your jaw. Roll the shoulder on the punching side up to protect your jaw.
The basic principle of movement while in a fighting stance is to start with the forward foot while pushing off with the rear foot, then close the step so you end up in the original stance.