Techniques of Fighting

There are enormous varieties of fighting genres. Each style, from complex martial arts to basic street self-defense, carries its own distinct moves, stances and forms. As a result, these techniques are effective in different ways. If you are considering taking martial arts or any kind of combat training, a general knowledge of how these techniques work can aid your understanding and help you choose the area that interests you the most.

  1. Karate

    • Karate techniques involve various attacks, all using the hands, feet, elbows and knees. Some styles also include forms of grappling, throws and restraints. The mechanics of each technique can differ as well. For example, Go-ju-riu style involves blocking techniques that are more circular and fluid, while shotokan style is quick and rigid. The object of karate is to take down an opponent quickly, ideally in a single blow.

    Kung-Fu

    • According to martial arts expert Quinn Early, Kung-Fu contains five styles, known as the shaolin five animals. The creatures are the dragon, tiger, snake, crane and leopard. The dragon technique focuses on powerful strikes using the palm and fist. The strength is drawn by performing a whipping action with the waist while striking, as well as mastering certain breathing skills. The tiger technique draws its strength from strong and hard attacks, with the tiger claw being its main strike. The claw is an open-handed attack toward the face, neck, groin, arms and wrist. The tiger style also uses the palms, fists and special kicks. The snake form is a calmer technique. It does not involve closed fists, but focuses instead on relaxation and piercing damage. The piercing effect is displayed through moves like chops and finger strikes. The crane technique is also relaxed, but its attacks focus on speed and power. Its long moves resemble stretched wings. The fighter can then apply strong, focused, flowing attacks. Finally, the leopard technique is quick and powerful, relying heavily whipping movements. This form also employs fast footwork and potent strikes.

    Mixed Martial Arts

    • Mixed martial arts employs a variety of techniques and is most famous for its use on "Ultimate Fighting Champion." There are three main styles: the ground fighter, the wrestler and the striker. The Atlanta Martial Arts Directory explains that the "groundfighter's strength is the ability to force a fight to the ground, where they then seek a fight-ending submission (joint locks or choke)." Alternately, "The wrestler is a stand-up and striking on the ground-oriented grappler" who uses a technique called the "ground pound." This involves taking the opponent down and ending the match with strikes. The striker's technique focuses on staying upright and winning by knockout, rather than taking his opponent down. His main strategy is the "sprawl and brawl," which involves defending against take-downs and striking back with blows.

    Street Fighting

    • Martial arts requires discipline and mastery of techniques, but street fighting focuses solely on combat. Its purpose is to defend against an assault and escape danger. It involves techniques that strike vital areas, such as the temples. Moves also include kicks to the foot, knee or groin, pierces to the eyes with the fingers or direct punches to the nose. Some of these moves can cause loss of consciousness, or can even be fatal if striking the temples or throat.