What are the proper mechanics for a 1-inch punch? How is it different than other punches? Is it more, less, or equally effective as other punches? Let's discuss it.

Short distance power is a fascinating subject. The interal arts use many types of jing to accomplish this. Body alignment and expansion/contraction of the muscles/joint/spine contribute greatly to this short distance power. Students of the late hsing-i master Hsu Hong Chi have almost magical short distance power. Dr. Ed Hampton launched me across the room(about 10-15 feet) with a mild shake of his body. He was less than 1" away, in fact his hand never left me. I am just thankful that there was no impact.

Since then I have worked hard to develop this ability and have met with good success. I would love to get a machine that could measure the psi of the blows.

Scott

This is definatly something you need to be shown, and not just read about. The head of my system of JKD could send 250 pounders flying with his punch- it was pretty impressive. As far as how, well, I've only seen it a few times, so I'm in no position to teach it to someone. However, I do know that dropping your weight behind the punch is key to developing the power.

I've heard it described as similar to an ocean wave. The wave first draws water toward itself before it sends it crashing onto the beach. So, if you visualize your energy as that of a wave's you can get a feel for the mechanics of it. Comments?

hi, short distance power is an interesting and fascinating subject i was actually taught that it is similar to sneezing and you have to do it but not think your doing it.. it took me a while to work out what was ment by this but i got there in the end.

does anyone no where i can download mpegs relating to this subject.

James DeMile had a pristine little book on the one and three inch punch mechanics. Perhaps a google search would locate him on the web ?

Just a thought
Cheers

<What are the proper mechanics for a 1-inch punch?...>

There is nothing "unique" about this strike except the distance used to generate the power. Aside from that factor, it is identical to any/every other strike!

Dead-weight, relaxed weight commitment is the foundation of/for the strike. If tense/rigid/contracted you will not be able to achieve the result to any degree of power the way you will actively persuing the opposite method of efficency... not in that distance anyway. In short explore how to release those tense muscles, learn to untense them.

The results are fascinating!!!

It was interesting to note that the De Milles' other book's description used a large plastic bottle/with tape on the table to practice it. He also pointed out that the vertical fist with downward to tighten up without proper timing or timed tensing, can result in damage to your wrist. Is there other hand forms as well?

I've seen people do the three inch punch often and it ALWAYS ends up being more of a "push" than a punch.

-John

Is there a special way to perform the one-inch punch or is it just about relaxation and tension of the muscles?

Thanks