In hand-to-hand combat, punches are the go-to moves to stun your opponent or set them up for a follow-up strike. To truly excel in the skill of punching, you must practice until these techniques become second nature, executed with speed and power.

In this danger guide, we continue moving forward into the principles of punches, the basic fist, safety considerations, and specific punch types. But we won’t stop there – we’ll also explore the Marine Corps Core Values that underpin the nature of a warrior.

Principles of Punches

Relaxation: The Key to Power

Muscle relaxation is your ally when it comes to punches. During training, emphasize staying relaxed. Tensing up during combat not only leads to rapid fatigue but also diminishes your power. Stay relaxed to generate greater speed and power. When making contact, clench your fist to inflict damage while safeguarding your wrist and hand.

Weight Transfer: The Source of Power

To pack a punch, you must transfer your weight effectively. This involves rotating your hips and shoulders into the attack and moving your body mass forward or backward in a straight line. Dropping your body weight into your opponent can be a game-changer, as you can transfer your mass from high to low or vice versa.

Rapid Retraction: Your Defense Mechanism

Swiftly retract your fist after striking. This important move not only protects you from your opponent’s counter-attack but also prevents them from grabbing your hand or arm. It also readies your hand and arm for subsequent punches.

Avoiding Telegraphing: The Art of Surprise

Telegraphing your intentions can be disastrous in combat fighting. Unintentional movements like drawing back your hand, changing facial expressions, tensing neck muscles, or twitching give away your next move. Staying relaxed is the best defense against telegraphing.

The Basic Fist

Punches are performed using the basic fist, and making it correctly is essential. To create the basic fist:

1. Curl your fingers naturally into the palm of your hand.
2. Place your thumb across the index and middle fingers.
3. Avoid clenching the fist until your movement has begun.
4. Apply muscular tension just before impact to maximize damage.
5. Make contact with the first knuckles of the index and middle fingers.
6. Ensure the first two knuckles align with the wrist to prevent injury.

Safety Considerations

When practicing punches, safety is paramount. Here are some guidelines:

• Begin with “air punches” where there’s no contact with others or equipment.
• Progress to facing partners, avoiding contact.
• Finally, practice on striking pads, making sure contact is only made with the pads.
• Keep your arm slightly bent during execution to prevent joint hyperextension.
• Start slowly and increase speed as proficiency grows.

Now, let’s plunge into specific punch types.

Lead Hand Punch

The lead hand punch is a lightning-fast straight punch executed by the forward or lead (left) hand. Its purpose is to stun the opponent and set up follow-up attacks. To perform  this punch:

1. Assume the basic fighter stance.
2. Snap your lead hand out to near full extension, rotating your palm downward.
3. Keep your rear hand ready to protect your head.
4. Make contact with the first two knuckles.
5. Swiftly retract your hand to the basic fighter stance.

Rear Hand Punch

The rear hand punch delivers maximum damage. It’s executed by the rear (right) hand and involves powerful hip and shoulder rotation. Here’s how to do it:

1. Assume the basic fighter stance.
2. Rotate your hips and shoulders toward the opponent.
3. Thrust your rear hand straight out, palm down, to near full extension.
4. Shift your body weight to your lead foot.
5. Make contact with the first two knuckles.
6. Rapidly retract to the basic fighter stance.

Uppercut

The uppercut is a potent punch originating below the opponent’s line of sight. It travels upward along the centerline of the opponent’s body and can be devastating when executed correctly. To perform an uppercut:

1. Assume the basic fighter stance.
2. Bend your arm, rotating your palm inward.
3. Thrust your fist upward toward the opponent’s chin or jaw.
4. Transfer power by shifting your body weight from low to high.
5. Maintain your lead hand for protection.
6. Make contact with the first two knuckles.
7. Swiftly retract your hand to the basic fighter stance.

Hook

The hook is a close-range, powerful punch usually following a preparatory strike. To execute a hook:

1. Assume the basic fighter stance.
2. Thrust your right arm in a hooking motion toward the opponent.
3. Keep your forearm parallel to the ground with your palm facing downward.
4. Rotate your right shoulder and hip forcefully.
5. Make contact with the first two knuckles.
6. Continue the rotation, following through with your fist.
7. Swiftly retract your hand to the basic fighter stance.

Marine Corps Core Values: The Foundation of Character

Beyond mastering the physical aspects of combat, Marines are defined by their character, which is guided by the Core Values of the Marine Corps: Honor, Courage, and Commitment.

Honor: Trust, Respect, and Accountability

• Trustworthiness is paramount; trust your buddies in combat.
• Respect human dignity and embrace diversity.
• Be accountable for your actions and never blame others for your mistakes.

Courage: Moral and Physical

• Exhibit moral courage when making unpopular decisions.
• Display physical courage in the face of fear, especially in combat fighting.

Commitment: Dedication to Excellence

• Commit to doing what’s right, always.
• Dedicate yourself to professionalism, discipline, and excellence.
• Loyalty to the organization and adherence to Marine Corps requirements are key.

Let’s expand on the information we provided you by discussing the significance of each punch and elaborating more on the Marine Corps Core Values.

The Purpose of Each Punch

Lead Hand Punch

The lead hand punch is not just a quick strike; it’s a tactical move designed to stun and create openings. Its speed conceals your intentions, allowing you to close the distance and control the encounter. Precision is key – aim for soft tissue areas for maximum impact.

Rear Hand Punch

The rear hand punch is your power punch. It’s about delivering maximum damage to neutralize your opponent swiftly. The explosive power generated by shifting your weight and rotating your hips and shoulders can be a game-changer in combat.

Uppercut

The uppercut is the punch that can turn the tide of a fight. Striking from below the opponent’s line of vision, it has the potential to render an opponent unconscious or cause significant damage. This punch is a testament to the importance of technique and timing in hand-to-hand combat fighting.

Hook

The hook is a close-range destroyer. It’s a punch designed for devastating impact, especially when preceded by a preparatory strike. Its effectiveness lies in its ability to generate power through proper rotation without telegraphing your intentions.

Core Values in Action

Honor: A Trustworthy Warrior

Honor is not just a word but a way of life for Marines. In combat, trust among comrades is indispensable. Trustworthiness forms the bedrock of this value, allowing Marines to rely on each other in life-or-death situations. It’s this trust that keeps the unit cohesive and effective.

Respect: Embracing Diversity

Respect extends beyond the battlefield. Marines respect not only their fellow Marines but also the diversity of people and cultures they encounter. This respect is not a weakness; it’s a strength, allowing Marines to engage with different cultures while maintaining their own principles.

Accountability: A Marine’s Responsibility

Accountability means taking ownership of one’s actions and decisions. Marines do not shy away from their responsibilities, no matter how challenging they may be. This accountability guarantees that the Corps operates with integrity and professionalism.

Courage: Beyond the Battlefield

Courage isn’t confined to the battlefield alone. Marines exhibit moral courage when making tough choices, even if they’re unpopular. They also demonstrate physical courage, conquering fear in combat. Courageous decision-making is what sets Marines apart as leaders, both in and out of uniform.

Commitment: Striving for Excellence

Commitment is the backbone of a Marine’s dedication. It’s the unwavering determination to do what’s right, to pursue professionalism, and to achieve excellence. This commitment extends 24/7, showing pride, concern for others, and a relentless pursuit of perfection.

Maintaining the Reputation

The mastery of punches and the embodiment of the Marine’s Values are not just ideals but daily practices. They ensure that each Marine is not only a formidable fighter but also a person of integrity and character. Upholding the Corps’ reputation as the world’s finest fighting force requires dedication, not only in combat but also in embodying these values. Just as “real brass” must shine, so must each Marine’s character, guided by these core principles, shine brightly.

Conclusion: The Art of Punching and Character

In any hand-to-hand confrontation, mastering the art of punching is essential. These techniques, when executed with precision, can be the difference between victory and defeat. Just as important as physical prowess is the foundation of character. The Marine Values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment serve as the compass guiding Marines in their actions, on and off the battlefield. It is this unwavering commitment to both physical and moral excellence that sets Marines apart as the world’s premier fighting force.

In closing, remember that each fighter has a responsibility to uphold their reputation through their conduct. Just as “real brass” must be polished to maintain its shine, so must each fighter contribute to keeping his reputation untarnished. In every punch and every action, let the Marine Corps Core Values be your guide.