Earlier on in our blog I discussed the slant style of fist we use — shaped a bit like a triangle (looking at it from the front). Today I’m chatting about the position of the thumb and the general significance of that position.
In most martial art styles, the thumb is folded across the front of the knuckles in a traditional way. Boxers, martial artists and people in general will make that fist – even in playing around. Once in awhile, you’ll see someone who isn’t trained put the thumb inside the fingers (the fingers wrapping the thumb and sort of holding it). That is the least effective way to make a fist and the most dangerous to your hand.
Mr. Suh, my instructor, had a different concept. He preferred the thumb to be folded at its first join (from the tip) and then tucking it into the side of the index finger. The tip of the thumb anchors at the first knuckle of the index finger. You can find the position by making a regular fist with the thumb across the knuckles: then, keeping the thumb in the same shape, pull it outward until the thumb’s tip drops into the side of the index finger tucking into that first knuckle as I mentioned.
When throwing a punch, the fist is held loosely at first. However, at the moment of impact, the fist must suddenly clench tighter as if catching a fly. Immediately following the punch, the hand is completely relaxed again. This all happens in milliseconds.
The technique of initially relaxing the fist (and arm) allows the fighter greater acceleration and speed. Of course, that is one of the major keys to having a powerful punch. It takes some time to learn how to support the fist and wrist on impact though; but, that’s what training and practice are for. What else should we be doing? J
GMM just taught me this last week. I’ve been practicing it. 10,000 more times… 🙂
That’s great!!! 10,000 times cures almost everything!
10,000 deeps breaths also cures almost everything!
Yes indeed! Before anything, take a deep breath. It’s like counting to ten too… when you’re upset.
What part of the fist actually makes the impact when we’re punching?
Hey Mick. The first two knuckles do (index and middle finger). That’s the traditional punch. If you use the middle finger to the little finger (three knuckles), it’s called “sun” and is a less common punch but, never-the-less, used for certain techniques (but not against hard bone). Thanks.
Couldn’t the shock of impact cause the index finger to come back onto the thumb, sir?
Yes…. if you form the fist incorrectly, impact could hyper-bend your thumb and injure you. You’re exactly right. But, if you put the thumb to the side, it’s in a better formation and is stronger, more rooted and helps strengthen the wrist. Thanks for commenting.
Thank you,sir. Iasked because I was putting the thumb behind the index joint.