Karate is a Japanese term that means "empty hand." This martial art teaches students how to defend themselves without the use of weapons. Instead, a karate practitioner's hands and feet become the weapons. Through karate training, you can learn some powerful punches that can break boards or make a lasting impression on an attacker's face. Karate punching techniques include the middle, reverse, hammer and hook punches.
Middle Punch
The basic middle punch is a technique you typically learn during your first karate lesson. This strike, also known as a fore-fist punch, is delivered from the side of your body. To perform this punch, make a fist with your palm facing upward. Place your fist at your hip. Powerfully punch straight ahead with your fist. Quickly turn your wrist before your punch hits its target. Your palm should be facing downward at the moment of impact. Hit your target with the knuckles of your forefinger and middle finger. Your opponent's solar plexus is a prime target for this technique.
Reverse Punch
The reverse punch is similar to the basic middle punch, but it is usually stronger. Try the reverse punch from a fighting stance with your left leg forward. Make a fist with your right hand. Before punching, place your fist at your right hip or near the right side of your face. Twist your hips as you punch your target. Remember to quickly turn the wrist before impact. "Mastering Karate" says the reverse punch covers more distance than some other karate strikes. Therefore, the book says, this punch is able to gain more momentum before hitting an opponent.
Hammer Punch
The hammer punch is a simple yet effective karate technique. This strike, also known as a hammer fist, is performed with the outer edge of your fist. Raise your fist in front of you and strike downward like a hammer. An opponent's nose is a prime target for the hammer punch. This punch can also hit the collarbone. Karate students sometimes deliver the punch horizontally to the ribs or side of the head. The Kihon Karate website says there is a low chance of self-injury with the hammer fist.
Hook Punch
Unlike most karate punching techniques, the hook punch is delivered in an arcing motion. To perform the hook punch, step forward with your left leg. Put your fists up near the sides of your face. Begin the punch by moving your left hip and shoulder toward your target. The hook punch is usually directed at the side of an opponent's head or body. Horizontally punch your opponent in a hooking motion. Hit the target with your knuckles. Your palm can be turned downward or inward at the moment of contact. Heavy-bag training can improve your hook punches.
References
- WSU Karate: Basic Punches
- Kihon Karate: Tettsui Uchi
- Kosho Ryu International: Terminology
- "Karate: The Art of 'Empty Hand' Fighting"; Hidetaka Nishiyama, Richard C. Brown; 1960
- "Mastering Karate"; Jerry Beasley; 2003
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