Hand Techniques

The hands of a karate practitioner can be formed into a variety of weapons, each suited for striking different vital areas. There are several punches and strikes in Isshinryu karate. The following are some of the basic hand techniques. Remember to start with your hand fully open. Close all four fingers tightly , then place the thumb on top lying it flat on its side. Contact is made with the top two knuckles. This is called the "Isshinryu fist", and it is the proper way of making a fist to avoid injuries and adding great power to your punches.

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The Straight Punch is the most common punch used in Isshinryu. It is performed by making the "Isshinryu fist", bringing the hand to the hip, then punching to the opponent's solar plexus. The punch should be snapped 95% out and 5% slightly retractedfor adding more power. You should also be turning your hips as you punch. This adds greater power to the punch. When practicing the straight punch, you should be in a solid horse stance. Contact is made with the top 2 knuckles.

The Reverse Punch uses almost the same technique as the straight punch, except that the punch is aimed to the opponent's jaw or the nose. Starting from the hip, start to deliver the reverse punch, as you get closer to your target, turn your hand all the way around so that the front two knuckles are on top at the point of impact. This punch is also snapped, and it should also be practiced by standing on a nice deep horse stance.

The ridge hand is a deadly technique and it's used by making contact with the inside of the hand. The hand should be opened with all four fingers close together and slightly bent and with the thumb tucked in. The ridge hand is used for strikes to the ribs, temples, jaw, throat, or solar plexus.

The back fist is made by using the Isshinryu fist but contact is made by hitting with the back of the hand. From a horse stance, bring your guard up, then strike with the leading hand, making contact with the top two knuckles to your opponent's face or temples. This is a great technique used in sparring.

The elbow smash is the deadliest strike in Isshinryu karate. Keep your fist tight to your armpit, and with all your body weight, swing your elbow completely forward until it is pointing straight out in front of you. Targets include the ribs, throat, solar plexus, and throat. By striking up with the elbow, you can hit under the jaw. This is an excellent technique for fighting with someone who is very close to you.

The Uppercut is used by making an Isshinryu fist. With your hand on your hip, the punch shoots straight up in front of you targeting the nose or the chin, making contact with the front two knuckles. Again, this is a good snappy punch with the power coming from your hips.

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