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Student Manual

You Are Here: Striking and Blocking – Hand

Striking and Blocking - Hand

Taekwondo hand strikes are performed as a close distance alternative to kicks. They are executed in a number of ways from standing, jumping, spinning and rushing forwards. Hand strikes make up fast combinations of strikes which can leave an opponent stunned and unable to defend himself. Taekwondo hand strikes can be separated into two distinct styles:

 ( Ap Joomuk )

FOREFIST\"\"

  • Forefist – A closed fist may be jabbed out directly to strike with the forefist knuckles. This is a suitable position for general punches to soft areas of the body. Without protection, it is inadvisable to strike the bony face as fingers are likely to get broken on the hard temple and jaw bones.

 ( Dung Joomuk )

BACKFIST\"\"

  • Backfist – A clenched hand is swung backwards into the face of an opponent. The back of the hand makes contact and the momentum in the swing makes this a powerful strike. Spinning backfists are a knockout punch and banned in most Taekwondo competitions.

 ( Sonkal )

KNIFEHAND\"\"

  • Knifehand – \’Sonkal\’, It enables you to strike or block anywhere with a sharp, powerful blow, the results of which can range from a stunning strike or block to a fight-ender.\"\"

With thanks to Grandmaster Donato Nardizzi