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Generate more power for your punches by focusing on your footwork
By Michael Ronquillo Footwork is very important in the standup portion of any martial art. Standup fighting begins and ends with footwork. It basically determines how effective your strikes are.
Let’s start with the most basic part: the fighting stance. Depending on whether you are left handed or right handed, the positions of your lead leg and trail leg are crucial. The gap between your legs is also important depending on what martial arts you are training in. For example, if you are practicing mixed martial arts, your stance is much wider in order to deflect any kicks. Generating power for your punches is dependent on footwork. Your feet should be firmly planted on the ground for maximum power. For example, if you are throwing a jab, you would step forward and move your body into it, so that you get all of your body weight behind the punch. Make sure your lead leg and trail leg are planted after you step in. If your feet are tilting or if you are fighting on your toes, power becomes limited at best. You might even be off balance which will leave you susceptible to a counter or takedown. It is important not to remain stationary when training. Constantly move around and stay alert. This is important so that you can control your surroundings and defend yourself in the event of an attack. For example, if you side step when someone throws a jab, you have negated not only their attack but their power as well. This leaves them vulnerable to a counter-attack while you have them at a great angle. Footwork is detrimental in dictating the pace; moving around constantly will make you less predictable and offer you many opportunities to beat your opponent.
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