In this article, I will explain the most basic and commonly used punch in Sanda: the front hand straight punch.
In the realm of combat, the front hand straight punch mainly comes in two types: one involves turning the front foot (this type of front hand straight punch is often intended for direct strikes, causing damage to the opponent with strong lethal power).
The second type does not involve turning the front foot. Compared to the first type, this front hand straight punch has weaker lethal power, but it is more effective in connecting subsequent actions. Its primary use is for probing the opponent, measuring the striking distance, scoring points, and linking subsequent actions for combination attacks (such as a front hand straight punch followed by a back hand straight punch, or a front hand straight punch followed by a throwing technique).
The motion of the front hand straight punch:
Start in a fighting stance, first push off with the back foot, then twist the waist and hips (during this step, you can choose to turn the front foot or not), then extend the shoulder, rotate the front hand punch straight forward, snap the wrist, aiming to strike with the knuckle part. It’s important during this process to keep the right fist guarded next to the right jaw.
Although I use the term “afterward” to explain the actions, this is just to help you understand the sequence and transfer of power. The actual execution of the movement should be seamless.
The power chain for the front hand straight punch (you can find more about power chains in my previous articles):
First, the back foot pushes off, activating the leg muscles to initiate the body movement and providing the initial acceleration.
Next, the force is transmitted through the torso (waist, hips, back, shoulders) and the turning of the front foot, accelerating the movement.
Then, the shoulder acts as a brake, transferring the power that has moved up the torso to the arm, changing the direction and speed of the force.
Finally, the front hand punch rotates in a straight line (accelerating in the direction of the strike), culminating in a snap of the wrist to deliver the punch at the maximum speed possible.
Key actions: Push, twist, swing, grip.
“Push” refers to pushing off with the back foot, transferring weight. (This is the first problem beginners face, as it can be difficult to get the right feel for pushing off).
“Twist” refers to the rotation of the torso and front foot, which conveys the power from the legs upwards, imparting “whole strength” to the striking action.
“Swing” involves initiating the shoulder in conjunction with the transferred power, swiftly executing the punch to make the strike explosive rather than merely a push.
“Grip” happens just as the punch is about to strike the opponent, tightening the fist. This action gives the front hand straight punch its killing power, as a tight fist concentrates the force for a more effective strike (it also reduces potential injury to the wrist).
It’s important not to grip the fist too tightly before hitting the target, as doing so can slow down the punch.
Main uses of the front hand straight punch:
Measuring striking distance (if you’re unsure whether you can hit the opponent, you can quickly throw a front hand straight punch to gauge the distance).
Counteracting an incoming attack (the front hand straight punch is short and fast, making it effective for counterattacking).
Combining with other techniques for a more powerful assault (front hand straight punch followed by a back hand straight punch, throws, or front kick).
Direct striking and probing attacks, using the front hand straight punch to test the opponent’s skills, and directly overpowering an opponent when their defense is weak.
Practice Tips for the Front Hand Straight Punch:
When practicing the front hand straight punch, the most important aspect is to execute the motion correctly rather than imitating others (many beginners make the mistake of copying professional fighters from competitions, which is a fundamental error; this approach captures the form but not the essence). Only after performing a motion correctly tens or even hundreds of thousands of times can it be considered mature.
When shadow boxing, be sure to pull your punches to avoid elbow injuries (refer to previous training tips).
At the moment of impact, tighten your fist to prevent wrist injuries.
