How To Punch - Part 2

Talking about how to make a fist is the first part of the process, but a punch has to come from the whole body. Looking at both Wing Chun Kung Fu and Tai Chi, we will see that there is more than one way to through a powerful and effective punch.

Wing Chun Kung Fu and Chen style Tai Chi train us to develop two very different fighting styles. Each has it’s own unique techniques and characteristics. To understand how we punch in each of these martial arts, we should start by understanding what separates them from each other.

One of the primary differences between Wing Chun Kung Fu punches and Chen Style Tai Chi punches is the structure of the body as the punch is thrown. Wing Chun punches are generally delivered in a straight line, with the elbow close to the body and the fist extended with the knuckles along the side. Chen Style Tai Chi punches, on the other hand, are typically more circular and incorporate the whole body, with the arm extending out from the center of the body and the knuckles along the top of the fist.

Another difference is the intention behind the punches. In Wing Chun, punches are often used from closer range and designed to be thrown rapidly, while in Chen Style Tai Chi, punches are typically employed with more power from a longer distance.

Despite these differences, there are some similarities between the two styles. Both are built on the application of relaxation and internal energy (Qi) to generate power, rather than relying solely on muscular strength. Both also emphasize the importance of proper body alignment and positioning to generate power and efficiency in their punches.

So having some understanding of how each style teaches us how to punch, let’s ask the question: Which one is better? The answer is that they both work. All the methods and training that these two systems (and indeed any fighting style teaches us about punching) teach are designed to give us a framework for how to move and how to fight. When you have learnt the structure of the system, we then need to know how to adapt it to our needs.

For example, Wing Chun Kung Fu is often referred to as a ‘close-range’ martial art, as it focuses on defending and striking in close quarters. This doesn’t mean though that in a fight, you will always be able to do that. You may need to stay out of your opponent’s range and then move in to strike from a distance. A long-range punch may not be thought of as a typical Wing Chun Kung Fu strike, but it can be if the structure and power are based on your Wing Chun principles.

The final stage then of learning to throw a punch is then not being locked into the style of method you have become comfortable with in your training. As with everything in martial arts, you should learn the skill, but then learn to apply it however you need to.