How to Perform a Back-Fist Strike in Karate

If an attacker is too close for you to perform an effective punch or kick to escape, a back-fist strike to the temple may be the answer.

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Instructions

    • 1

      Make your hands into fists.

    • 2

      Bend the elbow of your striking arm.

    • 3

      Position your striking arm across your chest palm-side down.

    • 4

      Snap the arm sideways at the elbow using your shoulders, upper arm and lower arm to whip out the fist in an arcing path toward the target.

    • 5

      Twist your wrist just before contact. The fist's upper knuckles are the striking surface.

    • 6

      Return your fist to the starting position immediately after contact.