From the Inside, Out

A good strike is generated from the core, and radiates outward to and through the extremities.  While the limbs are the delivery mechanisms and structures making physical contact, it is within the core and torso that the energy going into a strike originates.  We emphasize the core in all of our exercises because we know this to be true. 

 One of Bruce Lee's training techniques, especially for beginners, is to train the body to throw an elbow to the bag by shifting the feet and rotating the hips and torso.  (The arm should remain relaxed through the twist and the elbow should land at approximately shoulder height.)  By learning to do this well you will better understand the power mechanics of the body and how to produce a powerful strike from the torso rather than a flailing one from the elbow or shoulder.  After mastering this the student will further their sphere of influence outward training the farther reaching strike, the punch.  All-the-while in keeping with the power body mechanic learned through practicing the elbow strike technique.

Realize now, by training from the inside out you and your body will better understand where the long strikes come from, how they develop through the entire technique motion, and how to produce a more anatomically correct and structurally sound long-strike. 

Take another look at our Physical Arts exercises.  It is clear that the motions involved are going from close proximity to full extension.  This makes sense so as to 'grease the groove' and implant into a student's muscle memory the full range of motion of a strike.  Within each movement is a strike at all ranges along the spectrum from immediately close to completely extended.  This not only trains the anatomy to be aware of its own presence naturally, but with added weight resistance it strengthens the muscle along the entire trajectory of the strike while increasing flexibility and most importantly activating the core.

Written by: Alan Wedell