Back Fist
This is a very rapid and quick technique, popular in point scoring karate. One of the most basic formats, as you can see from the diagram, starts with the feet. Bend your knees ready to move. Push your weight slightly forward and raise your elbow and fore-arm immeadiately striking with the back of the fist. Snap your punch back very quickly coming back to your fighting position with your guard up ready for the next move. The back fist is an exceptionally quick movement and should be completed faster than the blink of an eye. A prime example is watching Bruce Lee perform this move in Enter the Dragon.

 

Important points for the back punch:

  • Recover the punch before full extension of the arm. The elbow joint should NEVER be over extended or locked as this may cause hyper extension of the joint.
  • As the name suggest the back fist strikes with the back of the fist. Specifically the target should be hit with the knuckles of the middle and fore fingers.
  • The back fist is a good points scoring technique because of it's speed.
  • All techniques should be practiced under the supervision of a qualified instructor.