The Back Swing Kick

This will be my last blog and my lat video until January 11, 2014.

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!
http://youtu.be/6KIgtGuLyaI
The Back Swing Kick

Today I am using the Back Swing Kick as a Counterattack.

The attacker advances and attempts an offset kick to my abdomen.

I block.

As he withdraws, I follow with a Swinging Back Kick.

Without Prejudice

The Back Thrust Kick

http://youtu.be/w9UN5DkGjXQ
Today I am kicking with runners again. 

Today I use the bottom of my heel as I thrust out behind me.

I just step in, lift the leg and drive the kick as shown.

It is the foot formation that protects the foot from injury. The runner helps but without the proper formation, it does not help much.

Without prejudice

The Side Kick

http://youtu.be/-91W5eIRwts

Today I am kicking with runners again. This is fine as I am using the outside edge of my heel, I need only flex my ankle.

I just step in, left the leg and drive the kick as shown.

Again, he foot is formed inside the runner and it is both the runner and the foot formation which save me from injury.

Without prejudice

The Roundhouse Kick with the Toe of the Boot

http://youtu.be/NG2-hT8fEJU
Today I am kicking with work boots. They have no flex in their sole or in the ankle. The sole grips the ground solidly and they are heavy too.

I use only the toe of my boot to strike with. The foot is formed inside the boot so that I am kicking only with the toe when performing this kick.

I prefer to use the ball of the foot but that is not possible when wearing work boots.

Again, regardless of kick, the foot must be formed correctly (even inside the boot) or I will injure myself when I kick.

Even so, after several kicks I can feel the impact of my toes on the inside of the boot. If I had to kick a lot of things in a short amount of time with this kick, I would not enjoy it (and my feet are conditioned).

Without prejudice

The Offset Snap Kick with the Ball of the Foot

http://youtu.be/Z0UkcioL3t8
Today I am kicking with dress shoes. They have almost no flex to their sole.

I can use either the toe of my shoe or the ball of the foot the strike with.

Striking with either looks the same and the only difference is how the kick feels to me.

I prefer to use the ball of the foot. This means I am actually striking with the bottom of my shoe when I make contact.

Regardless of kick, the foot must be formed correctly or I will injure myself when I kick.

Without prejudice

The Front Snap Kick with the Ball of the Foot

http://youtu.be/UZPOVHHo49Y
Whether I am kicking with a bare foot or with my runners, when I use the ball of the foot the strike with my foot is pulled back like I am standing on my heel. The runner make it look like I am kicking with the point of the toe but I am actually using the ball of the foot.

It is different if I practice with boots on. The foot formation is exactly the same but the inflexibility of the boot means I have to aim with the point of the toe.

Never the less, the foot is pulled up and then toes are pulled up whether a am kicking with a bare foot or a shod one. The foot must be formed correctly or I will injure myself when I kick.

There are two other things here. I keep my head up (and my chin down) as I look at the target out of the corner of my eye. Whenever I practice kicking, I keep at least one hand head height and ready to defend with.

Without prejudice

The Forward Spin Half Kick

http://youtu.be/No6OnXq3hLA
The last two days have shown me practicing what amount to back kicks that are half the distance of regular back kicks.

These two short back kicks have a couple of similarities. One is they happen at the same distance while the other is that they start from the same position.

Both happen at the same distance. With my feet together and turned away, I can turn my body sideways to the target and touch it with my extended elbow.

I start at attention with my arm sideways to my body and my elbow touching. I step back to a Leading Horse Stance.

It is at this point that the similarities end.

Rather than explain it, watch the video. There are major similarities with all four kicks demonstrated this week.

There are also major differences.

As I said before:

 “A picture is worth a thousand words.”

I did a lot of slow, careful, regular practices until it is an easy movement.

And I had to modify it to suit my own nature.

And I had to keep practicing it in order to keep the skill.

Without prejudice

The Hooking Back Kick

Today I am covering two different ways to deliver the Hooking Back Kick.

In some ways this is a lot like the Swing Back Kick. My back is to my opponent. I am hitting with the back of the heel. The delivery is in an upward direction as well.

However, the Hooking Back Kick is also a much closer kick. As I demonstrate, I am much closer (elbow range when I turn and measure). This close in kick is very powerful but it carries greater risk as my attacker has more he can do to me. Not only can he strike, he can also grab, throw and otherwise wrestle with me.

Again, like the Rising Back Kick, the Hooking Back Kick must me timed perfectly too.

This is another tool in my tool box (so to speak) for use at close range.

The slide in version:
http://youtu.be/FeMBLVIE3dQ
The video shows best how to do this. I go slow and concentrate on balance, focus, distance and timing. It works well as a follow-up at just outside elbow distance.

The shift away spin version:
http://youtu.be/ax0DocApLY0
Again, the video shows best how to do this. It works best as a follow-up at shoulder distance. This means I have elbowed or struck an oncoming attacker into temporary immobility before I kick.

Without prejudice

The Rising Back Kick

Today I am covering two different ways to deliver the Rising Back Kick.

In some ways this is a lot like the Back Thrust kick. My back is to my opponent. I am hitting with the bottom of the heel. The delivery is the same as well.

However, the Rising Back Kick is a much closer kick. As I demonstrate, I am much closer (elbow range when I turn and measure). This close in kick is very powerful but it carries greater risk as my attacker has more he can do to me. Not only can he strike, he can also grab, throw and otherwise wrestle with me.

So the Rising Back Kick must me timed perfectly.

In essence, it is another tool in my tool box (so to speak).

The slide in version:
 http://youtu.be/U2I19gmH6OY
The video shows best how to do this. I go slow and concentrate on balance, focus, distance and timing. It works well as a follow-up at just outside elbow distance.

The shift away spin version:
http://youtu.be/4_4hOlYJXxs
Again, the video shows best how to do this. It works best as a follow-up at shoulder distance. Which means I have elbowed or struck an oncoming attacker into temporary immobility before I kick..

Without prejudice

The Forward Spin Kick

(*Be Advised* The first forty seconds of the video show me spinning this kick a bunch of times.)

http://youtu.be/kn5TzMlCGNI

The last two days have shown me practicing back kicks of a thrusting or swinging nature.

There are two similarities to the delivery of these back kicks. One is they happen at the same distance while the other is that they start from the same position.

Both happen at the same distance. With my feet together and turned away, I can turn my body sideways to the target and touch it with my extended fingertips.

I start at attention with my arm sideways to my body and my fingertips touching. I step back to a Leading Horse Stance.

It is at this point that the similarities end.

Rather than explain it, watch the video.

 It is said, “A picture is worth a thousand words.”

I believe this video is worth several thousand words.

Remember, I did a lot of slow, careful, regular practices until it is an easy movement.

And once I had it down, I had to modify it to suit my own nature.

And once that was done I had to keep practicing it in order to keep the skill.

Without prejudice

The Back Swing Kick

Again I am delivering this Back Swing Kick in Two Different ways.

The slide in version:
http://youtu.be/jrRbDa9er5s

The video shows best how to do this.

The real trick is to have proper distance and placement at the right time.

The shift away spin version:
http://youtu.be/_7Zfw2ZQSpY

Again, the video shows best how to do this. It works best as a follow-up at punching distance.

When I kick I make iot a point to deliver the kick to the open side of the attacker.

Without prejudice

The Back Thrust Kick

Today I am covering two different ways to deliver this Back Heel Thrust Kick.

The slide in version:
http://youtu.be/JCMd0iXWNcM

The video shows best how to do this. I go slow and concentrate on balance, focus, distance and timing. It works well as a follow-up at kicking distance.

The shift away spin version:
http://youtu.be/CmJwbu-qF9c

Again, the video shows best how to do this. It works best as a follow-up at punching distance.

Without prejudice

Slide in Grab and Rear Arm Punch Follow-up

http://youtu.be/QVEUJlOLRkQ

I step forward from a Left Forward Bow to neutral as I grab my opponent’s lead arm.

Then I step forward to another Left Forward Bow as I strike with my right Punch.

How my attacker responds to my grab shows me where to punch.

If he freezes up or pulls down to get away, I punch to his head.

If he pulls his hand up I punch him in the body.

Without prejudice

Slide in Wrist Grab with Follow-up Roundhouse Kick

http://youtu.be/BhPsPbsuRDU
I start in Left Leading Horse stance.

I slide in to side leading Attention stance and grab my attacker’s extended wrist with my left hand.

I immediately snap a Roundhouse Kick with my left leg.

As before, it is possible to follow-up with front kick off the opposite leg before withdrawing.

Without prejudice

Slide in Wrist Grab with Follow-up Front Kick

http://youtu.be/4genFzMhlxs
I start in Left Forward Bow stance.

I slide in to Neutral and grab my attacker’s extended wrist with my left hand.

I immediately snap a Front Kick with my left leg.

In the video; I follow-up with another front kick and a punch before withdrawing.

Without prejudice

The Roundhouse Kick with Follow-ups

http://youtu.be/FmWpAoUbheQ
I start from far back in a Left Forward Bow.

I execute a full stepthrough to a deep Open-X and drive my (now) rear left leg out in a Roundhouse Kick to my opponent’s torso.

I drop my leg straight down to a left leading Neutral Stance and execute a left Backfist to his face.

Now only if I have landed both the kick and the backfist do I perform the third strike.

If I have landed both previous shots, I turn and look over my right shoulder before I drive out a spinning back kick.

Without prejudice

The Front Kick with Follow-ups

http://youtu.be/LRha4frMgPQ
I step forward with my rear leg and execute a Front Snap Kick with my lead leg.

Dropping the kicking leg down (but not forward, I execute an Offset Kick with my other leg.

I drop it down, and spin before lashing out with a Back Thrust kick.

This combination is done today against a stationary target.

In order for it to work, the first two kicks would have to land and cause enough damage to allow me time to spin and kick for a third (and final) time.

Without prejudice

Side Kick with Follow-ups

http://youtu.be/C8Vlt3hXyuQ
A simple sparring combination today.

I slide in a side kick, drop the kick and backfist before spinning a backfist. I usually use this against a retreating sparring partner.

Without prejudice

Striking with the Cane Tip in the Fifth Grip

 http://youtu.be/GDDdzmVLSnI
The hand holding the hook acts as more of a guide while the hand closer to the tip is the power hand.

I generally drive in about four inches but care must be taken when striking to keep the strikes light and quick or the Cane may break.

Without prejudice

The Cane Hook

http://youtu.be/epxS2Ee4gVY
Hooking with the Cane to the body is best done with the Fifth grip. It allows for maximum control.

I am at punching range when I hook the cane in a high, low, centre pattern.

The Cane must be gripped firmly when hooking or there is a good change it will come loose,

Without prejudice

The Cane and using the Fifth Grip

http://youtu.be/tSySuBdltgQ
The how-to of this drill is explained in the video.

What is important here is to note that the distance changes with the steps as does the part of the cane that is struck with.

Moving and striking and moving some more before withdrawing to a safe position is largely a matter of practice.

Without prejudice

The Cane, the Fifth Grip and a High, Low, Center Thrusting Drill

http://youtu.be/qmKLf0ZhLfY
I start at kicking distance.

I change my grip on the cane so I am holding it in the Fifth Grip.

I step forward to a Diagonal Horse (I am now at punching range).

I strike with the end of the cane in a high, low centre pattern.

I step back to Neutral then forward on the other side to a Diagonal Horse.

I repeat the drill thrusting with the back of the hook.

I make sure to concentrate on my distance, balance and focus.

My core is tight and my knees are bent.

If I should happen to miss, it should not affect the drill at all.

I just keep going.

Without prejudice

The Cane Thrust from an Augmented Sixth Grip

 http://youtu.be/vomy_5Hz7zY
This is similar to yesterday’s drill except that I am holding the cane in reverse and thrusting with the back end of the hook.

Holding the cane by the hook, I grab the middle and twirl it until I am holding the end. This is known as an Augmented Sixth Grip.

The rear hand is always the 'power' hand. The lead hand guides but it is the rear hand which is the power generator.

Standing at kicking range, I simply switch the grip to an Augmented Sixth Grip and drive the back of the hook into the bag at a specific spot repeatedly.

http://youtu.be/Gw0ZFyhYBjM
A few words about misses. I remain balanced whether I am striking the bag or missing it. I do not need the hit to keep me balanced (as I show).

Without prejudice

The Cane Thrust from an Augmented First Grip

http://youtu.be/TgaaShtKA6Y
Holding the cane by the hook and the middle is known as an Augmented First Grip.

Standing at kicking range, I simply drive the end into the bag at a specific spot repeatedly.

This drill improves balance, focus and coordination to name just a few virtues.

Without prejudice

Angled Palm Heel Block/Check/Counter

http://youtu.be/2aT3dy_2h-8
My attacker executes a looping stepthrough punch to the front side of my body that ends with us facing each other with the same leg forward (left versus left).

Both my hands are high in a Forward Bow with both shoulders square.

I execute an Angled Palm Heel Block with my lead arm. I check his still extended arm with my rear arm at the same time I counterpunch with my lead arm.

Then I follow up with several more counter punches before resetting.

Very much like yesterday’s drill except that I am defending the front side of my body instead of the middle front.

Without prejudice

Crossdownward Palm Heel Block/Check/Counter

http://youtu.be/xymrZj3Lw-w
My attacker executes a stepthrough punch to my body that ends with us facing each other with the same leg forward (left versus left).

Both my hands are high in a Forward Bow with both shoulders square.

I execute a Crossdownward Palm Heel Block with my lead arm. I check his still extended arm with my rear arm at the same time I counterpunch with my lead arm.

Then I follow up with several more counter punches before withdrawing.

Giving the attacker a target and then taking it away is absolutely vital to making this drill work.

Also, the first block and the check with the first counter are done with no hip torque. Only when I go to execute the second counter punch do I turn into my punch.

Oddly enough, the second counter is number three in the drill.

One is the block.

Two is the check with simultaneous counter.

Three is the second counter (this one with hip torque)

Four is the third counter punch.

From here I reset.

Without prejudice

Mantis Block/Check/Counter

http://youtu.be/Jibny9DOP1s
Again, my attacker and I are facing each other with the same leg forward (left versus left).

I am facing my attacker in a Forward Bow with both shoulder square and both hands in the high guard.

This drill is practiced against his rear arm performing a rear arm straight punch to the lead side of the body.

I execute a Mantis Block with my lead arm. I check his still extended arm with my rear arm at the same time I counterpunch with my lead arm.

Then I follow up with several more counter punches before withdrawing.

Giving the attacker a target and then taking it away is absolutely vital to making this drill work.

Without prejudice

Outside Palm Block/Check/Counter

http://youtu.be/soMLLfIiw9E
Again, my attacker and I are facing each other with the same leg forward (eg. left versus left).

Again, today, I am facing my attacker in a Forward Bow with both shoulders square.

This drill is practiced against his lead arm performing a strong powerful straight punch to my head.

I execute an Outside Palm Block with my lead arm. I check his still extended arm with my rear arm at the same time I counterpunch with my lead arm.

The timing is best shown in my video.

Again, I follow up with several more counter punches before withdrawing.

Without prejudice

Inside Hooking Block/Check/Counter

http://youtu.be/WTCluMIKdCs
Again, my attacker and I are facing each other with the same leg forward (eg. left versus left).

However, today, I am facing my attacker in a Diagonal Bow with lead shoulder closer than my rear one.

This drill is practiced against his rear arm performing a straight punch to the head.

I execute an Inside Hooking Block with my lead arm. I check his still extended arm with my rear arm at the same time I counterpunch with my lead arm.

Then I follow up with several more counter punches before withdrawing.

Without prejudice

Rising Block/Check/Counter

http://youtu.be/QgQIgpIjkls
My attacker and I are facing each other with the same leg forward (eg. left versus left).

This drill is practiced against his rear arm overhand punch to the head.

I execute a Rising Block with my lead arm. I check his still extended arm with my rear arm at the same time I counterpunch with my lead arm.

Then I follow up with several more counter punches before withdrawing.

Without prejudice

Slide in Side Kick then Lead Backfist Follow-up

http://youtu.be/JhjcLRTpCAI

I simple enough combination; I kick and as I drop in place, I perform a backfist out on the same side.

I kick and come down in neutral to punch. I do not fall forward and possibly impale myself on my attackers punch.

The rhythm is one, one half.

In many ways the drill at the end of the video combines the drills of both yesterday and the day before. I start in a Forward bow, I cross over and plant the foot down the kick.

This part of the drill is done further out. It must be done from further out or I will be jammed as I kick.

Without prejudice

Slide in Roundhouse Kick then Lead Backfist

http://youtu.be/wI1m-mUD4qQ
Similar to yesterday’s drill, I execute a Roundhouse Kick the step down as I strike with a Backfist.

The main difference is that today I am facing my attacker sideways.

Without prejudice

Slide In Front Kick then Lead Jab Follow-up

http://youtu.be/Kkp2S3PMT7s
I simple enough combination; I kick and as I drop in place, I jab out with the same side Forefist.

I kick and come down in neutral to punch. I do not fall forward and possibly impale myself on my attackers punch.

The rhythm is one, one half.

Without prejudice

Downward Parry then Slide in Offset Kick

http://youtu.be/KAxRBU3ZML8
 Against a powerful attack like a slide in side kick; this defense works very well.

As he kicks, I shift back from a Forward Bow to a Front Cat. At the same time, I execute a Downward Parry which deflects the kick slightly to the side.

It is vitally important that I shift away in order to have him extend his leg fully. It is equally vital that I parry his kick (instead off a hard block). This combination places me in a safe place and forces the kicker to follow up when he is out of position or to pull back in order to regroup.

If he strikes with his lead backfist after he kicks; I block before countering.

If he withdraws, I follow with a Slide in Offset Kick.

Without prejudice

Floating Block with Counter Kick

http://youtu.be/oKmNV8MawDY
I defend against a roundhouse kick to my ribs while standing in a Forward Bow.

I drive my arms into the attacking limb as shown. I make sure I turn into my block for extra power.

As the attacker withdraws, I advance and counter kick.

Without prejudice

The Kneeling Groin Block

http://youtu.be/t_BuyTrI6jg
I stand in a Forward Bow Stance. As the Front Kick drives up to strike me in the groin, I kneel down and drive my palm heel into the shin.

It is important to keep my back straight (I do not lean forward). Wherever my back foot is pointed, that is where my knee goes.

I time my kneel and descending palm heel so that I intercept the kick before it reaches its target.

Only then do I straighten up and counter attack.

Without prejudice

Another Four Strike Cane Drill

http://youtu.be/BsTstv82o_M
Again, I hold the Cane in the fifth grip with the hook pointed toward me. I stand so I my knuckles can touch the bag with my arms fully extended.

This is a simple side to side striking drill using only the back of the hook. This is high on one side, low on the other, then low on the first side and finishing with high on the second side. It actually reads as quite complex but it is not.

The drill is as shown and this time I do comment on it; I torque my hips into each strike. I am careful not to hit the bag too hard or drive too far in (no more than three inches).

Canes do break (or in the case of metal ones; bend), so care must be taken to hit with authority but not too hard.

Without prejudice

A Four Strike Cane Drill

http://youtu.be/MhMG_YOvf78
I hold the Cane in the fifth grip with the hook pointed toward me. I stand so I my knuckles can touch the bag with my arms fully extended.

Side to side striking is simple. Over the top and underneath are on a bit of an angle so I do not styrike myself as I withdraw the hook or end of the cane.

The drill is as shown and while I do not comment on it, I torque my hips into each strike. I am careful not to hit the bag too hard or drive too far in (no more than three inches).

Canes do break (or in the case of metal ones; bend), so care must be taken to hit with authority but not too hard.

Without prejudice

The Cane: Using the Hook Tip

http://youtu.be/IBm5b_O9Gp4
This drill is practiced just inside half distance. In other words, I am close enough to punch without overreaching.

I hold the cane in the fifth grip and hook the bag in a high, lw center fashion. Then I switch sides and do it again.

It is not heavy, hard and strained. But the action is powerful none the less.

It also has the advantage of training at punching distance so I become more aware of that distance as a fighting distance.

Without prejudice

The Butt End of the Cane

http://youtu.be/nLpH2K7UH78
As I stated in the video, there are two lessons being demonstrated today.

The first is ‘Situational Awareness’. The story I relate in the video did actually happened and I was very lucky it did not end badly. I was not ‘Looking Around’ as I had been taught.

Another name for the lesson could be ‘Look Around’. Paying attention to what is going on around me as well as what I am doing is very important for a variety of reasons (not just self defense).

The main lesson being offered today is to step into a Horse and shuffle into the heavy bag while delivering a thrust with the butt end of the cane. The cane is held in the fifth grip.

The various ‘how-to-do-this’ details are demonstrated in the video. This drill is about becoming familiar with the cane, the distances involved, etc.

In many ways this drill is similar to yesterday’s drill involving the forward bow and the cross check. Becoming aware of how to hold the cane, how to step with it, the various distances that the cane, the kick and the step work at, is very important to me as a Martial Artist.

It is important to realize that the attributes I train barehanded are the same attributes I use when practicing with the cane.

Practice, practice, practice…It is all important!

Without prejudice

The Cane and the Cross Check

http://youtu.be/Qg6wFCGJEQU
Watch the video to learn how to do this.

The point of this drill is to become familiar with the cane in the fifth grip, the shuffle and the Cross Check from kicking distance.

Doing it once is easy. Doing it on a regular basis is a habit. Developing a habit takes about three weeks.

Without prejudice

Basic Poke with the Cane

http://youtu.be/A_dbSLzGdnQ

This is a drill that familiarizes me with using the cane in an augmented first grip at kicking distance.

Basically, I am standing at kicking distance while in a Forward Bow.

I am holding the cane at the hook and the middle with the end pointed at the target.

I simply extend the cane and drive the last four inches into the target.

The idea is to be able to use kicking distance while practicing with various weapons (today it is the Cane).

Without prejudice

The Forehand Swinging Hammerfist

http://youtu.be/Sc0aNdkY9U0

Another long powerful swing that should be prefaced with a quick block or jab first.

As a follow-up; if it should land, it is a finisher.

Done as an initial move, it is just too easy to counter.

Without prejudice

The Overhand Snapping Back Knuckle

http://youtu.be/LLTJ4h-J_WI

Like the ‘Jab’ or ‘The Backhand Knifehand Thrust’, this is an easy strike to make and an easy one to use

I primarily use it with a block to the body making what could be loosely called a rolling body block with counter’.

I keep the core firm, knees bent and weight on the balls of the feet.

As I show; one arm blocks and the other flicks out this counter. In the video I am blocking with my rear arm and countering with my lead.

It looks like nothing until it lands.

Without prejudice

The Overhand Forefist Thrust

http://youtu.be/Y89Y4jwDYXg

This is another long powerful swing that should be prefaced with a quick block or jab first.

I simply raise my fist up by my rear as I wind up to make this a strong blow.

Again, done as an initial move, it is just too easy to counter.

Without prejudice

The Forehand Swinging Ridgehand

http://youtu.be/JZ2vfXmRDJI
This is a long powerful swing that should be prefaced with a quick block or jab first.

Forming the hand correctly and bending the arm slightly (therefore putting the bicep into it) are absolutely essential to making this a strong blow.

Done as an initial move, it is just too easy to counter.

Without prejudice

The Backhand Knifehand Thrust

http://youtu.be/w-TZWjqHFfE
Like the ‘Jab’, this is an easy strike to make and an easy one to use.

I keep the core firm, knees bent and weight on the balls of the feet.

I flick this move out with my lead arm right after my block (with the same arm).

It looks like nothing until it lands.


(As I show, it can also be used with the rear arm too.)

Without prejudice

The Jab

http://youtu.be/bwE50hG4gr0

The Lead Forefist Thrust (hereafter known as the ‘Jab’) is an easy punch to make and an easy one to use.

The challenge is to practice it often enough both by itself and in combination with other moves that it becomes a reflex move when under pressure.

Without prejudice

Shift Forward Rear Foot Block

*WARNING: All groin defenses are dangerous and care should be taken when practicing with a partner.

It is all too easy to damage without meaning to. This applies to both parties. Start slow and make sure you are under the guidance of an experienced teacher.

Remember, this groin defense only works when it is a reflex move and that only happens with a lot of practice (read thousands of times solo and thousands more with a partner).

This is a high risk defense for two reasons; I am moving forward into the kick and my blocking leg is moving in the same upward direction as the attacking kick .
http://youtu.be/vMGg1xvzSKk
The Shift Forward Rear Foot Block is done from a Forward Bow with the inside edge of the heel.  I simply shift forward and lift and drive my rear leg into the incoming kick.

If I am on time, I slam into the top of his ankle stopping his kick and likely damaging his leg.

If I am too early, my leg jams his kick but no damage occurs

If I am too late I moving into his kick and my blocking leg now becomes a guide and actually can assist  his kick.

This is simple and easy in theory but be advised, this defense requires a lot of practice or it will be too late against a determined adversary.

All that being said, this advanced block (when executed correctly), is a quick, powerful and very effective defense that can leave the defender in a perfect position to counter attack.

Without prejudice

Shift Away Lead Leg Block

*WARNING: All groin defenses are dangerous and care should be taken when practicing with a partner.

It is all too easy to damage without meaning to. This applies to both parties. Start slow and make sure you are under the guidance of an experienced teacher.

Remember, this groin defense only works when it is a reflex move and that only happens with a lot of practice (read thousands of times solo and thousands more with a partner).

Like yesterday’s defense, this is also a high risk defense. Because I am moving back, there is a tendency to think I am safe when in fact I may still be in range. Also, this block can be slower than intended because I am using my legs to first shift back then left to block.

http://youtu.be/kICVJfdpk7w
The Shift Away Lead Leg Block is done from a Forward Bow. I simply withdraw back to a front Cat Stance then lift my lead leg to block the incoming kick.

If I am on time, I will be out of his range (only slightly) and I can use the inside of my lower leg to move his kick aside.

If I am too early, my leg will simply get in the way and the attacker will kick into the outside of my leg (which is now in the way of his kick).

If I am too late, it is likely I will be kicked in the groin ( a not fun proposition under any conditions).

This is simple and easy in theory but be advised, this defense requires a lot of practice or it will be too late against a determined adversary.

All that being said, this advanced block (when executed correctly), is a quick, powerful and very effective defense that can leave the defender in a perfect position to counter attack.

Without prejudice

Shift Away Descending Palm Heel Hammer Block

*WARNING: All groin defenses are dangerous and care should be taken when practicing with a partner.

It is all too easy to damage without meaning to. This applies to both parties. Start slow and make sure you are under the guidance of an experienced teacher.

Remember, this groin defense only works when it is a reflex move and that only happens with a lot of practice (read thousands of times solo and thousands more with a partner).

More, this is also a high risk defense. Because I am moving back, there is a tendency to think I am safe when in fact I may still be in range.


http://youtu.be/ouWX0n_bz28
The Shift Away Descending Palm Heel Hammer Block is done from a Forward Bow. I simply withdraw back to a front Cat Stance as I drop my Palmheel into the incoming kick.

This is simple and easy in theory but be advised, this defense requires a lot of practice or it will be too late against a determined adversary.

Again; ideally, the attacking foot is struck on the arch. If the attacker were wearing steel toed boots, the palm heel would make contact with the foot behind the steel toe and just in front of the ankle.

All that being said, this block (when executed correctly), is a quick, powerful and very effective defense that leaves the defender in a perfect position to counter attack.

Without prejudice

Kneeling Descending Palm Heel Hammer Block

*WARNING: All groin defenses are dangerous and care should be taken when practicing with a partner.

It is all too easy to damage without meaning to. This applies to both parties. Start slow and make sure you are under the guidance of an experienced teacher.

Remember, this block only works when it is a reflex move and that only happens with a lot of practice (read thousands of times solo and thousands more with a partner).

More, this is a high risk defense. If I am late, I miss or miscalculate; the kick will strike me harder than if I had not done anything at all.




http://youtu.be/biMfE8bG0TY

The Kneeling Descending Palm Heel Hammer Block is done while in the Forward Bow. I simply kneel down as I drop my Palmheel into the incoming kick. I keep my head up as I kneel down.

Simple, yes…Easy, not so much…And be advised, the defender is moving toward the kick (simply by kneeling). So the power of the kick is intensified. The palm heel must be the point of contact.

Ideally, the attacking foot is struck on the arch. If the attacker were wearing steel toed boots, the palm heel would make contact with the foot behind the steel toe and just in front of the ankle.

All that being said, this block (when executed correctly), is a quick, powerful and very effective defense that leaves the defender in a perfect position to counter attack.

Without prejudice

The Shift Forward Front Thrust Kick

http://youtu.be/Av-dw6SIR3w

The Front Thrust kick uses the same leg motions as the Front Snap Kick.

However, the Front Thrust Kick uses different foot positions.

I raise my kicking leg up as my foot is pulled up tight (like I am standing on my heel).

As I extend the leg out my foot remains pulled back.

Only when I make contact does my foot extend forward and ends extended.

This movement makes the kick momentum go forward (instead of upward).

I am shifting forward which means I am kicking with my back leg while moving forward.

This kick makes an excellent follow-up counter that drives into an attackers lower torso.

It literally will not matter if the attacker is wearing groin protection or not.

Without prejudice

The Slide in Front Snap Kick

http://youtu.be/H6Xnc3oxdyU

In this instance, the attacker moves in and out, attacking and withdrawing only to attack again.

After I defend against his attack, I advance from my Forward Bow and snap to top of my lead foot  up to a Crane then out to his groin.

I am careful to use the top of my foot and drive though my target.

It is a light easy movement that is both quick and strong.

Without prejudice

The Angled Palm Block

http://youtu.be/46v_HNUotSE

This block covers the same area that the opposite arm covers when I perform a Mantis Block.

My blocking hand is held high. I sweep it down at an angle across the body and deflecting the incoming punch down from its intended target (the short ribs).

Ideally it slams into the incoming arm and deflects it to the side.

However, even if my block is a bit late, I can still deflect the punch down. Difficult to explain but there are times when I train this block that I deflect the punch down instead of to the side.

Without prejudice

The Crossdownward Palm Block

 http://youtu.be/eeVle8klI_4

This is in my opinion, the most misunderstood block around. Done against a kick or a weapon, it is a sure fire way to get hit harder than if no block was done. It is such an easy block to perform that often it is used inappropriately.  

This block has a very specific area that it guards (the solar plexus).

It has a very specific attack that it defends against (a straight Forefist thrust from an upright attacker).

My blocking hand is held high. I sweep it straight down and deflecting the incoming punch down from its intended target (the solar plexus).

Care must be taken that the deflected punch will not reach a lower target. More, all of this must be done in the instant the punch is thrown.

This block must to studied and trained intensively.

Never take it for granted or confuse it with any of the Downward Palmheel Hammer Blocks(s) used to defend against attacks to the lower torso. The Crossdownward Palm Block may look similar to any of the Downward Palmheel Hammer Blocks(s) at a casual glance but it is actually quite different.

Without prejudice

The Mantis Block

http://youtu.be/yU8Mm2wCKVQ

This block covers the mid torso against a Forefist thrust.

It does not look powerful but it is.

My blocking hand is held high. I sweep it down and to the same side deflecting the incoming punch.

The idea is to draw a punch to my torso so I deliberately hold my blocking arm so that my ribs appear to be exposed.

Without prejudice

The Outside Palm Block

http://youtu.be/6QIC_nLr78g

I usually use this palm strike (which is used here as a block) against an incoming punch to my face. I demonstrate how to use this block against a bare fist.

Be advised, it is my opinion that defending against weapons is a different affair all together. Weapons defenses are not what I am showing here.

Before I actually get to the block, I take time to set it up. I am forward facing (or forward angled). My core is firm, my knees are bent. I am at the correct distance for a punching attack and my arms are set.

There are several points about this block that are very important.

One is to open my blocking hand and use the palm while it is head height and about six inches out from me. I do not hold it too close to me. I am using my palm to hit with. I am not using the arm as a shield.

Two, as I drive the palm across the front of my face, I drop my opposite arm out of the way.

Three, I use the arm alone when executing this block. I do not turn my body into this block (as I demonstrate in the video).

Without prejudice

The Inside Hooking Block

http://youtu.be/B6WIYcWDITE

I use this strike (which is used here as a block) to an incoming punch to my face or upper torso.

There are two main points to remember about using this block well.

 One is to set the blocking forearm horizontally in front of the chest so the incoming punch travels over it. Before the punch makes contact, I snap my forearm across my body (as shown in the video).

The second point is to finish the block so that the blocking forearm travels slightly past the shoulder (as I demonstrate in the video).

Without prejudice

The Rising Block

http://youtu.be/1BvtUQ18xB0

I use this strike to an incoming punch to my face.

I am set and drawing the attack.

I block as the attack is incoming by driving the punch upwards.

This is a light quick smooth yet powerful move that must be timed correctly and done in practice to the point that it will work without conscious thought.

This is not meant to be used against a weapon nor is meant to be used against an overhand strike (like one to the top of my head).

It is used against a straight punch to the face.

Without prejudice

The Ball of the Foot

http://youtu.be/7vOGnpXLbYw
Another way of making the foot into a weapon is to pull the entire foot and toes up as high as they will go. This allows me to strike with the ball of the foot (as I show in my video).  Just remember to keep the foot firm in this position while kicking.

Whether I am wearing shoes or using bare feet, the foot must be held firm and the kicker must be used to the impact a foot makes when striking with the ball of the foot.

There is less danger of getting the foot damaged (or the leg getting grabbed) when kicking with the ball of the foot but it can happen so care should be exercised when using it.

http://youtu.be/O7sVEuA_LVM
The Front Snap kick can also be used to drive the ball of the foot into the groin. It, too, is a light feely move that can cause serious damage but it be easily defended against too. Again, it is not the panacea that cures all ills, rather it is another tool in a fighters ‘tool box’.

Without prejudice

The Top of the Foot

http://youtu.be/6Dn9_GDQbvs
Making the foot into a weapon that allows one to strike with the top of the foot is easy. Just point the foot down and point the toes down. Keep the foot firm in this position while striking.

Using it in both solo drill and free sparring is another thing. Even when wearing shoes the foot must be held firm and the kicker must be used to the impact a foot makes when striking with the top of the foot.

The danger of getting the foot damaged means that the kicker can move about less freely after the injury than before it.

http://youtu.be/HUABgXrmmPQ
The Front Snap kick drives the top of the foot into the groin. It is a light feely move that can cause serious damage but it be easily defended against too. It is not the panacea that cures all ills, rather it is another tool in a fighters ‘tool box’.

Without prejudice

The Ridgehand

http://youtu.be/-84Me244Ff0
In some ways, making a Ridgehand is similar to making a Knifehand. The fingers are held together. The knuckles are held in line.

There are some main differences in making the Ridgehand too. Hand is canted toward the little finger side. The thumb is pulled across the palm to the little finger.


http://youtu.be/kf1Ytv3RCfo
I perform a horizontal swinging forehand Ridgehand that makes contact with the opposite side of the palm.

Like I said yesterday, it is much more time consuming to write and complex to read than it is to do…Watch the video.

I usually preface this move with a jab, grab or ‘slap’ block that distracts my opponent for just a second. I also perform this as a big swing (which is different than how I first learned it.

Without prejudice

The Knifehand

http://youtu.be/ZFusJC1ZY-4

Making a Knifehand is similar to making a Forefist. The fingers are held together. The knuckles are held in line. The thumb is cocked (although this is a little higher than in the Forefist).

The main differences in making the Knifehand are the fingers are held straight out and bent only at the last joint and I am striking with the edge of the palm instead of the knuckles.

http://youtu.be/jX0JaLtf9kY
In this case, I am thrusting with the Knifehand. I wind up my Knifehand to the opposite side ear. From there I turn my striking hip and arm toward my attacker and thrust the Knifehand palm edge into them.

Actually much more time consuming to write and complex to read than it is to do…Watch the video.

Without prejudice

The Palmheel Thrust

http://youtu.be/CytmRTuFqVw
I make a Palmheel just as I show in the video. I simply pull the palm back and expose the base of the palm. I can then use what I call the top of the Palmheel for thrusting. This is different than the bottom of the Palmheel which I will cover another day.

The disadvantage of using top of the Palmheel is that it exposes the fingers to damage. I also have to be closer to land a thrust. And if I am a little off, I can land the palm instead of the Palmheel which can cause damage to the wrist.


http://youtu.be/T9AnGiZCp5g
On the other hand, this thrust is very similar to the Forefist from the high guard with the rear arm.

The padding of top of the Palmheel allows for a very strong strike and it requires very little practice to form it (although using it is a slightly different story).

As I said before, constant practice will improve it so that it will become a reflex. Constant monitoring can improve it as well (occasionally observing oneself practicing in a mirror for instance).

Without prejudice

The Forefist Thrust

http://youtu.be/K937_rKxws8
 I make a Forefist just as I show in the video. The formation of the fist and making contact with the correct knuckles is very important.

Just as important is conditioning the fist so that it can withstand the impact of a strike. However, conditioning is complex, long term and challenging activity that must be maintained regularly in an educated and intelligent manner. It can hardly be covered within one video so I will just say that the fist should be conditioned (even if it is padded) and leave it for another time.


http://youtu.be/hvGZL2Zt8lo
I am striking with a vertical Forefist (or standing fist) from the high guard with the rear arm. Basically, it is a straight punch that incorporates the hips, core, legs and arms.

Constant practice will improve it so that it will become a reflex. Constant monitoring can improve it as well (occasionally observing oneself practicing in a mirror for instance).

Without prejudice

Linear Stepthrough in a Leading Horse to a Forward Bow

http://youtu.be/zleycWJwTTA

I can move forward or back in a straight line from a Leading Horse through Neutral to a Forward Bow.

The Linear Stepthrough is the fastest way to move ahead or back (short of a jump). 

This stepthrough moves from the hips (they go first) and I move from a side facing position to a front facing position.

Without prejudice

Linear Stepthrough in a Forward Bow

http://youtu.be/3gPrMdx-HL8

I move forward or back in a straight line from a Left Forward Bow through Neutral to a Right Forward Bow (or I use the other side).

The Linear Stepthrough is the fastest way to move ahead or back (short of a jump). 

Combined with a punch, the advancing stepthrough is very powerful but it is easily defended against so it must be timed correctly.

Without prejudice

Linear Shuffle in a Leading Horse

http://youtu.be/6DMfK6chSN0

I move forward or back in a straight line from a Left Leading Horse through Informal Attention Stance (looks like I am skiing) to another Left Leading Horse Stance (or I use the other side).

The Leading Horse is another easy versatile stance that also forms the basis for some more of Kisae Kempo including this Linear Shuffle.

The advantage of the Leading Horse Shuffle is that it is fast and I have less tagets exposed to frontal attacks.

It too requires a ton of practice under various conditions in order to make it work.

Without prejudice

Linear Shuffle in a Forward Bow

http://youtu.be/AAN0RlvYgPM

I move forward or back in a straight line from a Left Forward Bow through Neutral to another Left Forward Bow (or I use the other side).

The Forward Bow is an easy versatile stance that forms the basis for a lot of Kisae Kempo including this Linear Shuffle.

Essentially it is Forward Bow to Neutral to Forward Bow keeping the same side leading.

Easy to say and easy to type but doing it until it is reflex under pressure requires a ton of practice under various conditions.

Without prejudice

Neutral Leading Horse and Side Cat

http://youtu.be/52MbSMd78ng

These next three stances are also basic stances in Kisae Kempo. I step back from Neutral and turn side ways to assume a Leading Horse.  I can shift my weight back to my rear leg to assume a Side Cat.

All six stances are just pauses in movement. Think of them as ‘captures’ taken from a movie. It is literally the movement that counts.

All that being said; I must be comfortable in my ability to maintain these stances when I defend or counter.

Without prejudice

Neutral Forward Bow and Front Cat

http://youtu.be/xdNfi5k6FXQ

These three stances are the most basic stances of Kisae Kempo, They are literally pauses in movement and I do not think of them as permanent. I move though them as I advance towards or withdraw from my opponent.

Without prejudice

The Half Step with Triple Strike Drill Starting with a Looping Forefist Thrust

http://youtu.be/Ycy1FEDyolA
I start the triple strike by looping the Forefist to the outside edge of the eye socket. I strike next with a straight Forefist thrust to the solar plexus and I finish with a straight thrust to the sternum.

http://youtu.be/KF-iDfX19fQ
When I am still I can torque my hips to gain power and extend my reach. But it is one or the other not both.

http://youtu.be/FvhZfmyfy8w
The basic half step with three punches looks like the first drill I demonstrated this week.

Without prejudice

The Half Step with a Triple Strike Drill Finishing with a Forehand Knifehand

This is another stepping with high, low centre striking drill.

http://youtu.be/I8X_L0uYo0s
I punch high, then low but I after I punch center I wind up with that arm and drive a Forehand Knifehand centre after I thrust low.

Because I am stepping as I strike, I use the momentum of my step to gain distance and add power to my blitz counterattack. I also do not need to torque into my punches when I step with them.

http://youtu.be/aYD-PFtpzbw
It is important to be able to strike hard and fast repeatedly. I step and strike even as the target moves.

When I punch the air, the strikes feel and look the same as when I strike a heavy bag.

However, the feeling of fist, arm, torso, leg and foot as I make an impact on the bag is different than when I strike air.

Without prejudice

The Half step with Triple Strike Drill Finishing with a Backhand Hammerfist

http://youtu.be/ao9MnoHekk4

This is a high, low, center strike drill. I step either to or from a bow as I punch high. Then I follow up with a low punch and a center underhand Backhand Hammerfist.



http://youtu.be/X0MmQv6S1RM

The trick to practicing this on a heavy bag is to realize the bag will move with the first strike. Therefore, I make sure the bag is secure when I practice this particular blitz.


Without prejudice

The Half step with Triple Strike Drill Finishing with a Forehand Palmheel Swing

http://youtu.be/gOy-HpTBkVw

I step forward from a Bow to Neutral as I punch high, then low and I finish the sequence with a Forehand Palmheel Swing to centre.

Then I step from Neutral forward to a Bow as I punch high, then low and I finish the sequence with a Forehand Palmheel Swing to centre. 

Then I repeat on the other side.

Unlike yesterday’s drill, I do three strikes for every step. Also as I am starting from further back so I am stepping in and using my momentum to add power. It is not necessary to torque my hips into my strikes.

Without prejudice

The One step with Triple Strike Drill Finishing with a Backhand Knifehand Thrust

http://youtu.be/Yk5vscPp6V8

I step forward from a Bow to Neutral as I punch high, then low but I as I punch low I wind up and drive a Backhand Knifehand Thrust to centre. I step from Neutral forward to a Bow as I punch high, then low but I as I punch low I wind up and drive a Backhand Knifehand Thrust to centre.

Then I repeat on the other side.

Unlike yesterday’s drill, I do three strikes for every step. Also as I am starting from further back so I am stepping in and using my momentum to add power. It is not necessary to torque my hips into my strikes.

Without prejudice

The Triple Strike Drill with Half Steps and Punches

http://youtu.be/t3t8O-R5D68

Like last week at this time but with steps, either to or from a Forward Bow.

The rhythm is even more important here than when I am doing it while standing still.

It will feel like nothing at all until it lands.

Without prejudice

The Triple Strike Drill Finishing with a Forehand Knifehand

This is a center, low, high strike drill.



http://youtu.be/fsuAU7bKbVU

Once again, I practice this one from knuckle distance.

I punch center, then low but I after I punch center I wind up with that arm and drive a Forehand Knifehand high after I thrust low.

Like yesterday’s drill but a bit further back (as I put my hips into each strike) and my last strike is a forehand swing.

This particular striking drill on the heavy bag can only be done up to the swing. Then I have to stop as the bag has moved away (or I have to move to accompany the bags swing).

http://youtu.be/e-Vb032712w

Now I have a bit of a challenge for those of you who enjoy that sort of thing.

I have demonstrated ‘High, Low, Centre’ and I have demonstrated its reverse ‘Centre, Low, High’.

The challenge is to go ‘Low, High, Centre’. Start slow and call it out loud. Remember that the regular practice that concentrates on developing the rhythm is very important if you wish to build both speed and power.

Remember that these drills are a bit like ‘rock, paper, scissors’. They are novel and interesting and they can be challenging and fun.

Without prejudice

The Triple Strike Drill Finishing with a Backhand Hammerfist

http://youtu.be/mipPnNFh4pg

This is a center, low high trill strike drill.I practice this one from palm heel distance (closer than pervious drills).

I punch center, then low but I after I punch center I wind up with that arm and drive a Backhand Hammerfist high after I thrust low. It’s actually easier to see than it is to do.

Then I repeat on the other side.

Several minutes at a time several times a week is the trick to developing a good reflex with this.

Without prejudice

The Triple Strike Drill

 http://youtu.be/Ly-MyHpncgQ

Jason’s High Low Center Strikes

Jason demonstrates this drill at Palmheel range (both palm heels touching the bag).

First he touches the bag at half speed with three sets of three strikes ending with a punch.

Then he touches the bag at half speed with three sets of three strikes ending with a backhand hammerfist.

Then he touches the bag at half speed with three sets of three strikes ending with a forehand swinging Ridgehand.

Finally he strikes the bag with full power and speed with three punches.

Notice that on the last three sequences, not only does the bag moves from the limb alone but the heavy bag support (which weighs several hundred pounds) can be heard as it is jostled about. That is from limb alone punches.

http://youtu.be/vhzHGlZqz8g

The Center Low High Strike Drill ending in an Overhand Forefist Thrust

This is the reverse of what Jason shows (and what I was doing earlier this week).

I strike center then low and finally execute an overhand Forefist thrust.

The rhythm is the same but the targets have changed.

Without prejudice




Without prejudice

The Triple Strike Drill Finishing with a Forehand Swinging Palmheel

http://youtu.be/yp_kLt-780E

Again, I punch high, then low and finish with a Forehand Swinging Palmheel to centre.

All three strikes come from the low guard position.

Then I repeat on the other side.

As evidenced in the video, the swing is considerably harder when I actually make contact with the heavy bag.

Pretty much like yesterday’s drill, doing it for several minutes at a time several times a week is the trick.

Without prejudice

The Triple Strike Drill Finishing with a Backhand Knifehand Thrust

http://youtu.be/PCdfH1Vl-I8

Again, I punch high, then low but I as I punch low I wind up and drive a Backhand Knifehand Thrust to centre.

 Then I repeat on the other side.

Pretty much like yesterday’s drill, doing it for several minutes at a time several times a week is the trick.

Without prejudice

The Triple Strike Drill with Punches

http://youtu.be/FUXY3f6XVBYT

he basic idea has been covered before. I punch high, then low and finally to center. Then I repeat.

The rhythm is important here. So is timing, balance and so on. It’s easy to do this drill once or twice.

However, doing it for several minutes at a time several times a week is more challenging. In this case, more challenging is better.

Without prejudice

The Swinging Back Kick

http://youtu.be/mpLThGrg7Bs

I can execute this kick in several ways. I usually start in a leading horse stance. I am just outside kicking range (as I show in my video).

When I am sliding in with this kick, I step with my lead leg until I am in a forward bow away from my attacker. Then I advance toward him my stepping with my rear leg. I literally shuffle while turned away.

 At this point I execute a swinging back kick by swinging my heel into my attacker’s groin.

I set the leg down and withdraw.

http://youtu.be/_0lwln1dWk0

When I am shifting forward to spin a swinging back kick I start in exactly the same position I did if I were sliding in a thrusting back kick.

I even step to the forward bow like last time. Only in this case, I turn even further and look over my rear shoulder at my attacker. Then I shift my weight toward him and kick.

The kick should be easy and effortless. It is only when it makes contact that its real power is felt.


http://youtu.be/29_HnMWYIDo

As I show in this video, I am kicking to the open side of the stance.

When I am shifting away to spin a swinging back kick I start with my back leg just outside kicking range.  I turn as I step back to neutral and kick with my back leg.

The trick with all three of these kicks is to make sure I have both timing and positioning and an effortless execution that does not require thought.

Without prejudice

The Thrusting Back Kick

I can execute this kick in several ways. I usually start in a leading horse stance. I am just outside kicking range (as I show in my video).


http://youtu.be/4a2UV6d03AA

When I am sliding in with this kick, I step with my lead leg until I am in a forward bow away from my attacker. Then I advance toward him my stepping with my rear leg. I literally shuffle while turned away.

 At this point I execute a thrusting back kick by lifting up my leg and driving my heel into my attacker’s body.

I set the leg down and withdraw.

http://youtu.be/HIRYmmrYWO4 



 When I am shifting forward to spin a thrusting back kick I start in exactly the same position I did if I were sliding in a thrusting back kick.

I even step to the forward bow like last time. Only in this case, I turn even further and look over my rear shoulder at my attacker. Then I shift my weight toward him and kick.

It is actually much harder to write it down than it is to perform it.

The kick should be easy and effortless. It is only when it makes contact that its real power is felt.

http://youtu.be/zw6_VXNPl_k

When I am shifting away to spin a thrusting back kick I start with my back leg just outside kicking range.  I turn as I step back to neutral and kick with my back leg.

The trick with all three of these kicks is to make sure I have both timing and positioning and an effortless execution that does not require thought.

Without prejudice

The Side Kick

http://youtu.be/qVv0485Jifk

This kick is looks very similar to the roundhouse kick I did yesterday except that the leg and  foot is angled to hit with the heel.  And it to, usually works best against an opponent standing sideways to me.

I start in a leading horse stance. 

I shuffle forward to neutral and lift my knee as I bend my leg. I snap my leg out and drive my heel into my attacker’s groin.

I make it a point to withdraw it quickly.

I can also, shift away from the attacker while I am in a leading horse and kick with my lead leg.

Like yesterday (as well) there is no hip torque in a lead leg roundhouse kick done from a leading horse stance.
http://youtu.be/DgUDs4unzu0

Like yesterday’s kick, I put my hips into the side kick from the forward bow requires a full ninety degree by turning my lead leg and hips.

This too is actually a different kick than when I first practiced it years ago.

I prefer the three ways I execute it now. They work for me.

Without prejudice

The Roundhouse Kick

http://youtu.be/ZjvRNj6FfWI

This kick is very similar to the front kick except that the leg is angled to drive horizontally instead of vertically (as in a front kick).  And it to, usually works best against an opponent standing sideways to me.

I start in a leading horse stance. 

I shuffle forward to neutral and lift my knee as I bend my leg. I snap my leg out and drive the top of my foot into my attacker’s groin.

I make it a point to withdraw it quickly.

I can also, shift away from the attacker while I am in a leading horse and kick with my lead leg.

There is no hip torque in a lead leg roundhouse kick done from a leading horse stance.


http://youtu.be/RWHeCgfpsQQ

Putting my hips into the roundhouse kick from the forward bow requires a full ninety degree turn of the lead leg and hips.

I start in a Forward bow. I turn my lead foot out and torque my rear hip towards my attacker. I use this forward momentum to give power to the kick.

It is actually a different kick than when I first practiced it years ago. When I first learned it, I would shift forward from a forward bow up to a front crane then turn and drive the leg horizontally out.

I liked that kick…Still do but I prefer the three ways I execute it now. They work for me.

Without prejudice

The Offset Kick

http://youtu.be/nd_LOB-ZD8M

In many ways this kick is very similar to the front kick.  It usually works best against an opponent standing sideways to me.

I lift my knee as I bend my leg and snap my hips slightly forward and as I straighten the leg I drive the top of my foot on an angle into my attackers groin.

I make it a point to withdraw it quickly.

Like yesterday I usually execute this kick in one of three different ways at a beginning level.

I can shuffle in, shift forward or shift away and kick with my lead leg.

http://youtu.be/buWq_A1oWmA

Putting my hips into this move is a two step idea.

I tilt my hips up as I lift my leg up and I turn slightly to drive my body behind the kick.

I can start in a Forward bow but I can also start in neutral. I can step forward into the Bow and use this forward momentum to give power to the kick.

But as I stated yesterday, what I get in power, I may lose in speed.

Without prejudice

The Front Snap Kick

http://youtu.be/dknHVZI_0hE

I lift my knee as I bend my leg and snap my hips slightly forward and as I straighten the leg I drive the top of my foot into my attackers groin.

I make it a point to withdraw it quickly so it does not get trapped between his legs.

I usually execute this kick in one of three different ways at a beginning level.

I can shuffle in and kick with my lead leg.

I can turn my lead foot slightly and kick with my rear leg as I shift forward

I can shift my weight back onto my rear leg (without moving it) and kick with my lead leg.

http://youtu.be/p-APuVEfvCM

When I am using this kick as a power move, I am somewhat slower with it but what I lose in speed I make up for in power.

However, like all power moves, it must to set up with proper timing and distance or it can be used against me.

Without prejudice

Lead Arm Block with Rear Arm Forehand Hammerfist Counter

http://youtu.be/jiegl8XR0R4

I demonstrate this tactic while covering my head and upper torso from Forefist thrusts.

The basic idea is that I give my attacker a target to the head or torso in this case.

As he tries to punch it I block his punch with my lead arm and simultaneously counter with my rear arm using a Rear Arm Forehand Hammerfist.

Once again; for this review, I am using the six basic head and torso blocks.

Again, the rhythm is ‘one’.

For the last six days I have reviewed six different ways to follow up on the six basic blocks against punches to the head and torso from punching range. 

Without prejudice

Simultaneous Rear Arm Block with Lead Arm Rolling Hammerfist

http://youtu.be/oJ6auoBS8PU

Today I use my rear arm to block a punch while I roll my lead arm into a backhand hammerfist attacker.

If I wish to follow up on this, I roll the same lead arm up into another backhand hammerfist to the attacker’s head. I finish with a shift away kick to the groin.

The trick is to practice it enough both with cooperating partners and uncooperative partners to make work without thought.

Without prejudice

Block with Counter

http://youtu.be/vLW8R7reKRw

I demonstrate this tactic while covering my head and upper torso from Forefist thrusts.

The basic idea is that I give my attacker a target.

As he tries to punch it I block his punch with my lead arm and simultaneously counterpunch with my rear arm.

The rhythm is ‘one’.

Without prejudice

Block Check Counter

http://youtu.be/9JFul6A0660

Just like the last two days; I demonstrate this tactic while covering my head and upper torso from Forefist thrusts.

Again, I give my attacker a target and in this case he tries to punch it with a hard driving thrust.

I block his punch.

I use my other arm to ‘check’ his arm (hold it in place for a fraction of a second).

Then I use my blocking arm to punch.

If I have blocked with my lead arm, I have no need to torque my hips into my punch.

However, if I have used my rear arm to block then I need to torque my rear arm into my counter or I will not be able to reach my attacker.

At this point I could be using follow up attacks depending upon the circumstances.

The rhythm is ‘one-two-three’.

As with all my techniques, these are hard driving blows that feel light and easy (until they land;).

Without prejudice

Block Counter

http://youtu.be/0SU0YvkBYvQ

Again, I use the same blocks I used yesterday to cover my head and upper torso from Forefist thrusts.

This time I use a different tactic.

Just like yesterday;  I give my attacker a target. In this case he tries to punch it.

I block his punch.

This time there is no pause between the block and the punch. Today my counter travels only a few inches and uses the same arm I blocked with.

This tactic is very fast and it works well but is a big surprise to the attacker when it works best.

The rhythm is one, two.

Without prejudice

Block and Counter

http://youtu.be/A-4YqWVigZo

I demonstrate this tactic while covering my head and upper torso from Forefist thrusts.

However, it can be used in a variety of ways.

The basic idea is that I give my attacker a target. In this case he tries to punch it.

I block his punch.

Then there is a pause between the block and the punch. During this pause I could be blocking or evading follow up attacks.

This tactic works for those times when a block is required but…and it is a big but…the counter is late.

The rhythm is one AND two.

Without prejudice

Simultaneous Angled Block with Forehand Knifehand Counter

http://youtu.be/bFxlNukXCAs

I start in a left Forward Bow. My lead arm performs an angled block while my rear arm strikes out with a Forehand Knifehand counter strike to the body.

I then follow these with multiple punches to the body and head.

Today I finish with a shift forward knee to the groin.

Constant practice with enthusiasm is the key here.

Without prejudice

Simultaneous Crossdownward Palm Block with Forehand Knifehand Counter

http://youtu.be/afMZcP49kWo

I start in a left Forward Bow. My lead arm performs a crossdownward palm block while my rear arm strikes out with a Forehand Knifehand counter strike to the body.

I then follow these with multiple punches to the body and head.

Today I finish with a shift away front snap kick to the groin.

While this is about rhythm, distance and flow, it is also about building a reflex defense combination that can be used to guard various areas of the body.

Without prejudice

Simultaneous Mantis Block with Forehand Hammerfist Counter

http://youtu.be/SmreHY_rkCM

I start in a left Forward Bow. My lead arm performs a mantis block while my rear arm strikes out with a Forehand Hammerfist counter strike to the body.

I then follow these with multiple punches.

Today I finish with a shift away front snap kick to the groin.

This is about rhythm, distance and flow.

Without prejudice

Simultaneous Outside Palm Block with Forehand Hammerfist Counter

http://youtu.be/wx38I89o5uY

I start in a left Forward Bow. My lead arm performs an outside palm block while my rear arm strikes out with a Forehand Hammerfist counter strike to the body. I then follow these with multiple punches and a knee into his groin.

This is not about speed; it is about rhythm, distance and flow.

Without prejudice

Simultaneous Inside Hooking Block with Forehand Hammerfist Counter

http://youtu.be/1hm7PiNnpTk

I start in a left Forward Bow. My lead arm performs an inside hooking block while my rear arm strikes out with a Forehand Hammerfist counter strike to the body. I then follow these with a lead arm Forefist thrust to the head, a rear arm Forefist  Thrust to the body and another punch to the head before driving my rear knee into his groin.

I withdraw to a right Forward Bow and repeat on the other side.

I simple enough drill, it reads as a lot more complex than it is.

Without prejudice

Simultaneous Rising Block with Forehand Knifehand Counter

http://youtu.be/lyUbtU3op-I

My lead arm performs a rising block while my rear arm strikes out with a forehand Knifehand counter strike. I then follow these with two more punches.

I simple enough drill. The challenge lies in being able to execute it successfully when the heat is on.

Without prejudice

Simultaneous Angled Block with Rolling Hammerfist

http://youtu.be/xTVjrhOhZ6A

This drill is similar to yesterday’s drill except that I am performing an angled block today.

Today I use my rear arm to block a punch to the body while I roll my lead arm up into a backhand hammerfist attacker’s head. Then I roll the same lead arm down into another backhand hammerfist to the attacker’s body.

I can also block with my lead arm and counter with my rear one. It is a matter of positioning and preference.

Without prejudice

Simultaneous Crossdownward Palm Block with Rolling Hammerfist

http://youtu.be/af5ErVo4V7Q

This drill is similar to yesterday’s drill except that I am performing a crossdownward palm block today.

Today I use my rear arm to block a punch to the body while I roll my lead arm up into a backhand hammerfist attacker’s head. Then I roll the same lead arm down into another backhand hammerfist to the attacker’s body.

Only then do I turn my lead foot and drive my rear knee into my attacker’s groin. I put the foot down and withdraw back. Ehen I use the knee I am careful to keep hands up and my attacker at the proper distance.

Without prejudice

Simultaneous Mantis Hooking Block with Backhand Hammerfist

http://youtu.be/P5qyABvIPnc

Today I am performing a mantis hooking block. My rear arm is blocking so it is in the high guard. My lead arm is countering so it is held horizontally in the mid guard across the front of my torso.

I block a punch to the body with my rear arm as I strike with my lead arm into my attacker’s face. Then I roll the same lead arm down into another backhand hammerfist to the attacker’s body while moving my rear blocking arm back up to its original position.

This combination looks deceptively easy but both thje block and the counter have to be strong and quick or this will not be effective.

Without prejudice

Simultaneous Outside Palm Block with Backhand Hammerfist

http://youtu.be/xEEyGc0lSUg

Today I am performing an outside palm block. My rear arm is blocking so it is in the high guard. My lead arm is countering so it is held horizontally in the mid guard across the front of my torso.

I block a punch to the face with my rear arm as I strike with my lead arm into my attacker’s body. Then I roll the same lead arm up into another backhand hammerfist to the attacker’s head.

Slow at first, I gradually increase my speed and power as I become more familiar with the combination.

Without prejudice