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Friday, February 6, 2026

Kajukenbo and the Power of Hyperbole: Myth, Marketing, and the Martial Truth

There are few modern martial arts surrounded by as much myth and legend as Kajukenbo. One tale stands above the rest, the famous story of “five masters” each representing a different fighting style who came together in 1947 to create a new, unstoppable system. The story has been told and retold in countless dojos and online discussions, often with the flavor of an underground “Fight Club” forming in the back streets of Honolulu. It’s a compelling image but it isn’t entirely true.

The authentic history of Kajukenbo is far more human, far more practical, and in many ways far more inspirational. As someone who has loved reading about the real origins of Kajukenbo, I believe understanding the truth only strengthens the art’s legitimacy and its value to future generations.

In truth, none of the original founders of Kajukenbo were “masters” when they began their experiment. Most were skilled fighters, particularly in boxing and passionate martial arts students. What brought them together was not a shared mastery, but a shared interest or goal and maybe a frustration; A need for a fighting system that actually worked in the streets, the rough streets of Palama Settlement in postwar Hawaii. 

They blended what they knew from Karate, Judo, Kenpo and boxing not as a theoretical exercise, but through trial. The techniques were tested and discarded based on what worked under pressure. They trained hard, fought hard, and built something authentic out of sweat and practicality, not myth.

The Question of Hyperbole

That brings us to the ongoing question: does the exaggeration, the “five masters” myth, harm Kajukenbo as an art or help it as a business?

It’s a fair debate. When martial arts history becomes inflated with fantasy, credibility is the casualty. In an age where students research lineage and authenticity, romanticized stories can backfire, especially when new practitioners discover the truth. To some, this might make Kajukenbo seem like a beautiful lie, an art built on myth rather than method.

Yet, myth also has power. A great story captures attention. It inspires fascination, and curiosity often leads people to walk through the dojo door. From a marketing perspective, the legend serves as a hook, a way to convey uniqueness, toughness, and the Hawaiian melting pot spirit that gave birth to Kajukenbo. In this sense, hyperbole doesn’t destroy the art’s image; it invites exploration.

 A Real Story Worth Telling

Perhaps the solution lies not in rejecting the legend but in reframing it. Instead of “five masters,” speak of “five innovators.” Instead of “a secret fight club,” tell of “a group of young men who refused to accept ineffective techniques.” Present the real story without losing the spirit of adventure that has always made Kajukenbo compelling.

Honesty doesn’t weaken Kajukenbo; it dignifies it. When we acknowledge the founders for who they truly were, determined fighters, not mythic grandmasters, we honor the essence of Kajukenbo’s creation. It was born not from ego, but from necessity, experimentation, and brotherhood.

As an avid lover of Kajukenbo’s authentic history, I’ve always believed that the truth is inspiring enough. The art’s founders didn’t rely on myth to prove their worth. They relied on results. The system they built through sweat and trial has stood the test of time because it works, not because of manufactured legends.

Life-long practitioner, author, and Kajukenbo KSDI historian Mitch Powell has written two books on the authentic history of Kajukenbo: “How Kajukenbo Became an American Martial Art: The Unknown Story” and “The Creation of Kajukenbo: Dates and Details.” Both books focus on the early development of the art and were written exclusively to dispel many of the inaccurate, romanticized, and embellished accounts that have long surrounded the story of how Kajukenbo came to be.

Hyperbole might draw curiosity, but authenticity builds respect. Kajukenbo deserves to be known for what it truly is, an evolving, living testament to practical innovation, tough training, and the spirit of adaptation.

You can purchase Mitch Powell's books on Amazon. CLICK HERE

Thursday, February 5, 2026

KAJUKENBO YELLOW BELT TECHNIQUES: The Inward Hammer Block

The inward hammer block is a foundational defensive move ideal for yellow belt students, teaching direct interception of straight punches from a fighting stance. It builds confidence in close-range defense while integrating seamlessly with Shotokan and Kenpo principles of hip-driven power and immediate counters.

From Karate's Traditional Inward Block (Uchi-Uke) to Gunslinger

Traditional karate training emphasizes structure, power, and technical precision and for good reason. The inward hammer block, is traditionally taught with a broad, circular chambering motion that teaches coordination between the hips, torso, and arms. This method helps beginners grasp principles such as body mechanics, timing, and center-line control. These traditional movements build strong fundamentals, which are all good, but the reality on the street demands something far leaner and faster. 

No Initial Draw Back

In a live confrontation, any visible preparation, such as drawing the arm back before blocking telegraphs intent. Real combat favors “no draw back” movement: the action begins and ends from a neutral or guarded position. The forearm travels directly to the point of interception, cutting out the two-step rhythm of traditional training. This streamlined motion not only saves time but also preserves the element of surprise, an invaluable advantage when facing an aggressive attacker.

Tighter and Shorter Motion

Instead of a wide, arcing deflection, the modern adaptation uses a compact, linear intercept. The forearm moves across the centerline like a short shield, deflecting the incoming strike just enough to redirect its force without compromising the defender’s balance or position. This “shielding” action is more akin to a boxer’s parry or a close-quarters guard, built around minimal motion and maximum efficiency.

Speed Over Form

In the dojo, students are often reminded that “speed is power.” On the street, speed is survival. The modern interpretation of Uchi-uke employs a quick, 45-degree hammer-like action, a sharp, snapping movement that functions almost like a homing missile locking onto the attacker’s limb. The goal is to intercept the strike earlier than the opponent can adjust, disrupting their rhythm and opening the window for immediate counterattack.

The “Gunfighter” Mentality

The term “gunfighter” describes a tactical mindset as much as a physical technique. Just as a gunfighter draws and fires with precision under pressure, the Kajukenbo practitioner learns to intercept rather than react. This approach replaces the idea of “wait, then block” with “recognize, then intercept.” The defender moves in the same instant the attack is launched, often striking in the process making defense and offense one seamless act.

Bridging Dojo Principles with Real Context

Traditional dojo practice instills structure, discipline, and mechanical understanding. These are not discarded; they form the base from which practical application evolves. The skilled martial artist understands that the classic Uchi-uke teaches body alignment, torque, and hip integration. But in the real-world “gunfight,” the principle remains while the motion is stripped to its bare minimum, only what’s necessary to stop the attack and counter decisively.

In essence, traditional training builds the engine; modern application drives the vehicle. The goal is not to replace tradition but to refine it, translating classical theory into functional action under the stress of close-quarters combat.

Technique Basics

From a fighting stance, knees bent, lead hand forward at eye level, rear hand guarding the cheek, execute the block with your lead or rear arm. Thrust linearly across your centerline like a straight punch, no initial drawback, using the hammer fist or inner forearm ridge to strike the incoming punch's bicep or forearm. Elbow leads slightly, palm turns slightly thumb-up at contact, finishing with the blocking arm extended outward at shoulder height.

The power comes from a subtle hip snap, a short explosive torque of the hips and ground push, not arm isolation, ensuring the block feels like a short "punch" into the threat. Your body stays compact, weight centered, ready for counterattack.

Step-by-Step Execution

1.) Assume a fighting posture—front foot points forward, rear foot angles 45 degrees, torso slightly side-facing for protection. Hands in guard.  2.) With no exaggerated pullback—begin the thrust from current position. Drive elbow forward across body in a straight line, rotating fist so ulnar edge meets the attack at 45 degrees, deflecting it outward. Tense core at impact, exhale sharply, then retract minimally while the opposite hand is in position is chambered at the chin to cover or punch.​ 3.) Return to Guard - Keep eyes on opponent.

Combat Applications


This block excels against jabs or crosses to the head/chest, redirecting force while damaging the attacker's limb. Think of it as a strike disguised as defense. It opens lanes for an uppercut, a hook or a shovel punch to the body for close quarters or an elbow strike (pictured above) for extreme close-quarters. In yellow belt kumite, pair it with footwork: step slightly offline as you block to avoid power punches.

Training Progressions

Solo Drills: 50 reps per side in front of mirror, emphasizing straight-line speed and hip torque without telegraphing.

Partner Work: Slow feeds of straight punches; block and counter, building to 70% speed with verbal cues like "jab!"

 Common Errors to Avoid

Yellow belts often swing the arm in an arc, correct this by cueing "punch it straight." Weak hip involvement leads to soft blocks; drill with resistance bands around the waist. Always protect the head; dropping hands exposes you.

Mastering the inward hammer block at yellow belt level instills practical timing and aggression, setting a strong base for progression. Practice daily for street-ready defense.

Wednesday, November 12, 2025

DEVELOPING SPEED IN SHOTOKAN - PT. 1

Speed in Shotokan is developed through training methods like hitting with intent, proper body mechanics, relaxation, and drills focused on explosive power, while also using physical conditioning such as plyometrics and weight training. To improve hand and foot speed, use resistance bands, focus on the "knee drop" for lower body movements, and train with increasing speed and precision in your techniques.

Techniques and training principles

      1.) Hit with intent: Focus on hitting with power and purpose, not just going through the motions.

      2.) Relaxation and power: Stay relaxed until the point of impact, then explosively concentrate all your body's power into the technique. 

      3.) "Knee drop": Instead of pushing off your back leg, drop into your stance by bending your knee and hip to move faster, especially for stepping back or side-stepping.  

      4.) Slow and fast training: Practice techniques slowly and with precision to build a strong foundation, then gradually increase the speed. 

      5.) Use resistance: Use resistance bands on your ankles or hands to build strength and speed.  

      6.) Breathing: Proper breathing techniques are crucial for generating power and for maintaining speed.

Physical conditioning   

1.) Plyometrics: Perform exercises like plyometric push-ups and box jumps to improve explosive power. 

2.) Weight training: Incorporate weight training to build the explosive strength needed for powerful movements. 

3.) Cardio and flexibility: Improve your stamina with cardiovascular exercises like swimming, and increase your flexibility with stretching to allow for deeper stances and movements.

Drills

      1.)  Resistance band drills: Attach bands to your hands or feet while practicing to create resistance.

      2.) Speed bag: Use a speed bag to develop hand speed and coordination.

      3.) Lower body drills: Practice the "knee drop" drill by dropping in place or turning 90° or 180°.

      4.) Kata speed drills: Perform sequences in your kata at different speeds, from fluid to rapid.

 

Monday, November 10, 2025

A Son's Revolution: Yoshitaka Funakoshi's intense training forged modern Shotokan

Shotokan Tiger design by Barron Shepherd
Yoshitaka Funakoshi, also known as Gigo Funakoshi, played a transformative role in evolving Shotokan karate into the powerful, athletic, and technically advanced martial art practiced worldwide today. While his father, Gichin Funakoshi, emphasized karate as a philosophical way of life with a deep focus on kata and character development, Yoshitaka’s vision introduced a dynamic and combative edge. 

Yoshitaka is credited with major technical innovations including the development of longer, deeper stances; refined and powerful kicking techniques such as the mawashi geri (roundhouse kick) and yoko geri (side kick); and the promotion of full extension kicks that enhanced speed and striking power. Drawing influence from his study of kendo and iaido, Yoshitaka emphasized fluid, upright postures that allowed for faster attacks and more efficient movement.

Perhaps most revolutionary was his focus on applying karate in a competitive and combative context. Unlike his father, who approached karate with a more idealistic and philosophical mindset, Yoshitaka embraced free sparring, kumite, and a practical training methodology that stressed raw power and effectiveness. His classes encouraged students to generate powerful strikes that could “crack floorboards,” a stark contrast to the restraint promoted by Gichin.

The training philosophy: "Break the body to free the spirit!"

For Yoshitaka, martial arts training was not merely about performing techniques correctly but about forging an unbreakable spirit through physical hardship. Master Taiji Kase, a contemporary of Funakoshi's, recounted how training involved performing techniques hundreds of times until students were exhausted, pushing them beyond their perceived limits.

This mindset is best summarized by a maxim attributed to Yoshitaka himself: "Break the body to free the spirit!". This approach prepared students to face real-life confrontations with courage and resilience.

Technical innovations that defined modern Shotokan

Yoshitaka's changes were not just in intensity; he fundamentally redesigned the technical aspects of Shotokan.

Deeper, longer stances: He developed more rooted stances, such as kiba-dachi, zenkutsu-dachi kokutsu-dachi, which built leg strength and generated more powerful techniques.

Dynamic kicking: Yoshitaka expanded the Shotokan arsenal to include higher, more explosive kicks like the mawashi-geri (round kick) and yoko-geri (side kick), which were less common in older styles.

New kumite forms: He championed the use of sparring (kumite) as a central training method, introducing foundational kumite forms (gohon kumite, kihon ippon kumite, jiyu ippon kumite) to prepare students for real combat.

Long-range attacks: Moving away from the close-quarters Okinawan style, Yoshitaka focused on long-range attacks to maximize power and speed.

Influence of other martial arts: His innovations reflected influences from other Japanese martial arts, like Kendo and Iaido, contributing to Shotokan's explosive nature.

The generation gap: Father versus son

The philosophies of Gichin Funakoshi and his son Yoshitaka Funakoshi represent a pivotal evolution within the Shotokan karate lineage, shaping the martial art into what millions practice worldwide today.

Gichin Funakoshi, the founder of Shotokan, viewed karate primarily as a way of life dedicated to character perfection. His teachings emphasized kata—the formal patterns of movement—as a core practice, along with philosophical discipline rooted in humility, respect, and lifelong self-improvement. His approach reflected the deeper moral and spiritual dimensions of karate, encouraging practitioners to seek mastery of mind, body, and spirit as one integrated pursuit.

In contrast, Yoshitaka Funakoshi, while honoring his father’s principles, believed that karate also needed to embrace a more combative and competitive aspect. He advocated for emphasizing the raw power of techniques and an athleticism that prepared fighters for intense, realistic encounters. Yoshitaka’s vision brought a dynamic, modern, and sports-oriented dimension to Shotokan, a shift that appeared to contradict but ultimately complemented Gichin’s original teachings. 

Significantly, Gichin Funakoshi sanctioned these changes by his son, demonstrating openness to adaptation and evolution even when it challenged his traditional philosophy. This endorsement helped legitimize Yoshitaka’s approach and ensured his influence on Shotokan’s worldwide spread as a vibrant, athletic martial art.

Tragically, Yoshitaka Funakoshi died young at 39 in 1945 during wartime Tokyo, never witnessing the full global impact of his contributions. Today, Yoshitaka’s influence is undeniable. The intensity of his training, deep understanding of biomechanics, and focus on practical power forged Shotokan’s modern identity—a dynamic martial art balancing philosophical roots with combative effectiveness—continuing to inspire millions of practitioners worldwide.



Wednesday, October 22, 2025

The Modern Athlete's Approach to Kata Training

Over the years I've witnessed a fundamental shift in how we approach traditional martial arts training. The integration of evidence-based conditioning methods with kata practice represents one of the most exciting developments in modern athletic performance enhancement.

 

The Science Behind Traditional Movement

Recent research involving elite kata practitioners has validated what many of us in the sports performance field have long suspected: traditional martial arts forms, when programmed systematically, produce measurable athletic adaptations comparable to advanced strength and conditioning protocols. Over a comprehensive 16-week periodized program combining kata with strength training and high-intensity interval conditioning, researchers documented significant improvements in lower-limb explosiveness, upper-body strength, cardiovascular endurance, and favorable body composition changes.​

These findings align perfectly with NASM's Optimum Performance Training (OPT) model, which emphasizes progressive adaptation through integrated movement patterns. Kata naturally incorporates multiple planes of motion, unilateral loading, and complex movement sequences that challenge proprioception, coordination, and muscular endurance simultaneously.​

 

Performance Enhancement Through Traditional Practice

From a biomechanical standpoint, kata training addresses several key performance variables that we target in modern athletic development:

Power Development: The explosive transitions between stances and rapid directional changes in kata create plyometric-like training effects. Research shows these movement patterns enhance rate of force development, particularly in the lower extremities, which translates directly to improved athletic performance across multiple sports.​

Metabolic Conditioning: When performed at competition intensity, kata challenges both the phosphocreatine and glycolytic energy systems. The intermittent high-intensity nature of kata execution mirrors the demands we see in combat sports and team athletics, making it an excellent conditioning tool.​

Movement Quality: The precision required in kata execution develops kinesthetic awareness and movement efficiency. This enhanced proprioceptive ability reduces injury risk while improving skill transfer to sport-specific movements.

 

Integrated Programming Approach

As a sports performance enhancement specialist, I view kata not as just an isolated practice, but as one component within a comprehensive training system. The most successful athletes will integrate kata training using periodized programming principles:

Phase 1 - Movement Preparation: Slow, controlled kata execution emphasizes stability, mobility, and movement quality. This aligns with NASM's stabilization endurance phase, building the foundation for more intensive training.​

Phase 2 - Strength Development: Kata performed with added resistance (weighted vests, resistance bands) or through isometric holds develops functional strength in sport-specific movement patterns.

Phase 3 - Power Application: High-velocity kata execution combined with plyometric drills maximizes power output and anaerobic capacity.

 

Evidence-Based Programming Recommendations

Based on the research, I recommend the following programming parameters for kata-based performance enhancement:

Frequency: 3-4 sessions per week, integrated with traditional strength and conditioning work

Intensity: Varying from 60-95% perceived exertion depending on training phase

Volume: 15-30 minutes of kata-specific work per session

Progression: Systematic increases in complexity, speed, and loading over 4-6 week training blocks

The key is treating kata with the same scientific rigor we apply to any other training modality. Heart rate monitoring, power output measurement, and objective performance metrics should guide programming decisions.


The Future of Traditional Training

The research validating kata as a legitimate performance enhancement tool represents a broader trend in sports science: the recognition that traditional movement practices, when properly understood and systematically applied, can produce elite-level athletic adaptations.​

For martial artists seeking to maximize their physical potential, the message is clear: embrace the marriage of ancient wisdom and modern sports science. When kata training is integrated within a comprehensive, evidence-based performance program, it becomes not just a cultural practice, but a powerful tool for athletic development.

The traditional and the scientific need not be at odds—they can be powerful allies in the pursuit of human performance excellence.

 Transform Study Findings into Practical Training

Drawing from the scientific research on kata performance and conditioning, the following are practical, evidence-based recommendations for karate practitioners who wish to transform their kata into a powerful training tool.

1. Train Kata at Multiple Speeds

Research shows that alternating tempo during kata training develops different energy systems and muscle fibers.​

Perform kata slowly once per session to build control, posture stability, and endurance through isometric tension.

Execute kata at full speed to enhance fast-twitch muscle response and anaerobic conditioning.

Blend slow-to-fast transitions for cardiovascular conditioning and combat rhythm awareness.

 

2. Use Kata as Functional Strength Training

Studies emphasize the high mechanical load of deep stances and rapid directional changes in kata.​

Treat stances such as kiba-dachi (horse stance) and zenkutsu-dachi (front stance) as static holds for lower-body strength.

Integrate plyometric-style kihon movements to develop explosive hip power and improve punch and kick velocity.

Focus on core engagement during transitions to protect the spine and optimize force transfer.

 

3. Apply Interval-Based Kata Conditioning

Physiological studies of elite kata athletes confirm that kata alternates between short power bursts and controlled breathing phases, making it ideal for interval conditioning.​

Create short circuits by performing two to three kata rounds with 60-second active recovery.

Combine kata bursts with push-ups, squats, or shadow sparring to mimic competition intensity.

 

4. Reinforce Kata with Strength and Mobility Sessions

Research on elite performance reveals improved results when kata evolves alongside resistance and flexibility work.​

Supplement kata days with kettlebell squats and medicine ball rotations to enhance hip drive and stability.

Incorporate yoga or dynamic stretching for joint preservation and posture alignment during stance practice.

 

5. Integrate Deliberate Practice and Feedback

Borrowing directly from sports-science-informed training approaches, deliberate repetition with feedback accelerates technical and physical gains.​

Record kata sessions to analyze balance, timing, and breathing consistency.

Use mirrors or partner observation for real-time correction.

Apply targeted corrections—like lowering stance depth or enhancing snap—in isolated drills before reintegrating them into full kata.

 

6. Prioritize Recovery and Variation

Kata’s repeated patterns can cause muscular imbalances or overuse if not cycled properly.​

Alternate kata emphasizing different stances, directions, and intensity levels throughout the week.

Integrate rest or mobility days to sustain longevity and prevent hip, knee, and lower-back strain.

 

7. Structure Training Like an Athlete

Modern conditioning for kata aligns with periodized athletic training.​

Design training cycles with specific focus phases: technical control, strength building, speed power, and recovery.

Evaluate personal performance periodically using metrics like heart rate recovery, stance duration, and explosive movement time.

In essence, turning kata into a conditioning system requires blending tradition with science: varying intensity, deliberate technical feedback, strength support work, and intelligent recovery. When practiced this way, kata not only refines technique—it transforms the body into a durable, adaptable, and powerful instrument of martial purpose.

Kata is far more than a rehearsal of forms—it is a functional conditioning system encoded within karate’s tradition. When practiced with focus on biomechanics, speed variation, and physical adaptation, kata builds explosive strength, muscular endurance, and mental discipline. Its fusion of technique and training proves that traditional movement, when properly understood, remains one of the most efficient full-body conditioning systems in martial arts.

Wednesday, October 1, 2025

The Difference between Cross training and Cross Ranking

 

As someone who has researched and trained across multiple martial arts, I’ve learned that cross training and cross ranking are fundamentally different and most importantly that one martial art doesn’t automatically transfer to another.

For me, cross training means stepping outside your core system to study additional arts, which builds versatility but doesn’t grant one rank in those new styles. For example, taking boxing lessons to improve my striking mechanics helps me become a more complete fighter, but it doesn’t make me a ranked boxer.

On the other hand, cross ranking, where someone receives an equivalent or honorary belt in a different martial art, doesn’t always reflect genuine skill or technical mastery. It's my believe that ranks should represent years of committed study and formal testing within each art’s unique standards, not a shortcut based on achievements elsewhere.

The techniques, biomechanics, and tactical demands of every martial art are specific to its context. Mastery in judo, for example, doesn’t mean I’ll automatically excel in karate or boxing because each system has its own rules, skills, and ranking process. Real proficiency and legitimacy come from earning my place within each distinct discipline—not by transferring titles or experience between arts. 

As someone deeply invested in researching and practicing multiple martial arts, I see a clear distinction between cross training and cross ranking and I’ve learned firsthand that expertise or rank in one art doesn’t automatically carry over to another. When I cross train, it’s about broadening my skills and understanding by studying techniques outside my main system, like picking up boxing fundamentals as a judoka. This builds versatility and helps me adapt to different situations, but it doesn’t give me a recognized rank in that secondary art.

Cross ranking, on the other hand, is when someone tries to use achievements or a belt from one style to claim an equivalent status in another, often without going through the formal challenges or curriculum that the new art demands. For me, that shortcut doesn’t feel legitimate; proficiency in martial arts is specific to each system’s techniques, tactics, rules, and ranking standards. 

Rank should reflect dedicated study and testing in the discipline itself, not just transferable athleticism or experience. That’s why I believe in truly earning my place within each distinct martial art I pursue.

Wednesday, June 11, 2025

DYNAMIC KAJUKENBO YELLOW BELT TECHNIQUES PART 1

The time it takes to go from white belt to yellow belt in Kajukenbo depends on many factors, including training time, attitude, skill development and the instructor or school. There are a lot of skills to learn in Kajukenbo at even the yellow belt level, these include punches, kicks, throws, take downs, joint locks, parries, counters, footwork, head movement, to name a few. 

Kajukenbo combines a variety of techniques from which many different combinations can be performed. Combinations allow you to attack and counter your opponent while protecting yourself. By working on different combinations that involve various strikes, throws and footwork patterns, you can develop more varied and effective attacks. This can be especially important in a real fight, where the ability to mix up one's techniques and confuse one's opponent can be a major advantage. 

Important requirements for a yellow belt in Kajukenbo is a focus on proper form, mastering basic striking, blocking and throwing techniques. Yellow belt level emphasizes correct technique and proper body mechanics. Basic combinations are taught at this level, learning and utilizing basic blocking, striking and throwing/takedown sequences is crucial. Practicing proper footwork, the ability to step offline of an incoming strike/evade a punch and stance transitions is also essential at this level. 

In the following yellow belt combination you will find some of the basic yellow belt techniques; these include inward block, hammer fist, forearm strike, a right cross and basic Ippon Seoi Nage (back carry throw) commonly referred to as a shoulder throw. 

1.) The attacker is in a right foot forward fighting stance and you are in a right foot forward fighting stance.      2.) The attacker throws a straight right punch. Pivot counter clockwise on the lead foot. The rear foot slides or steps back toward three o'clock (this moves the head offline of the incoming punch) as you execute a right inward hammer fist to the attacker's right bicep.    3.) From the exact point of contact of the downward hammer fist to the opponent’s right arm, pivot back clockwise on both feet to twelve o'clock and execute a right hammer fist to the opponent’s jaw or side of neck. Your left hand remains chambered at your right shoulder.

4.) Push off the rear foot raising the heel off the ground as you strike the left side of the opponent’s neck with the outward boney area of the forearm. Your right hand chambers at your chin.   5.) Immediately, execute a right punch as your feet shift position. Your right foot shuffles back and pivots counter clockwise as the left foot moves forward toward the direction of the ten o’clock position. Follow through with the punch by turning your hand over.   6.) Push off the left foot and step forward with the right foot (toes should be pointing toward the twelve o’clock position). Strike your opponent’s right shoulder with a left heel of palm strike and grab his clothing at the area struck. This strike should be hard enough to disrupt his posture and rock him back on his heels.

7.) With a short quick jerk with the left hand, pull the opponent into you. This should rock him to his front and off of his heels. Simultaneously step your right foot straight to the inside of his right foot.  8.) Pivot on your right foot counter – clockwise and bring your left foot back between your opponent’s feet. Simultaneously pull the opponent forward and bring your right arm up under his right arm. Pinch his right bicep between your right bicep and forearm. 9.) Straighten your legs and bend at the waist popping your hips up and lifting him into the air (this is an explosive movement). Keeping your grip on the opponent, bring your left elbow downward, twisting your upper body toward your left hip to finish the throw.

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