How to Push a Punch Away

Countless martial arts films glorify violence, but the martial arts were formed as a defensive exercise to promote peace. You should never engage in a fight unless an altercation is forced upon you and you have no alternative but to defend yourself. If someone throws a punch at you, to avoid getting hit, you have the options of ducking out of the way or redirecting the punch away from you. It is easier and more effective to push the punch away than to slap it down. Additionally, this move keeps your hand close to you so you don't have far to bring it back up to cover your face.

Instructions

    • 1

      Take a defensive stance. Set your feet with your dominate foot in front of you. Position your body so your opponent is off center, either to the left or right of you.

    • 2

      Protect your face. Hold your dominate hand up in front of your face. Form a fist with your other hand and hold it up next to your head about an inch away from it, just above your eyebrow.

    • 3

      Watch your opponent's movements. Move with her to keep her off center and make yourself a moving target.

    • 4

      Push the punch away. When your assailant punches at you, catch his fist with an open hand near the wrist. Push their hand back towards them and slightly down. This should be a smooth and continuous motion.