Technique Database
Hook Punch
Kagi Zuki
Short hooking punch wrapping around the guard
Key steps
- Stand close to the target with the elbow bent and the fist held in front of the body rather than chambered far back.
- Rotate the hips and torso as the fist hooks across the target line with the elbow staying roughly level with the hand.
- Keep the strike tight and rounded so it wraps around the guard without turning into a wide swinging punch.
- Retract the arm immediately and re-square your base so the hook can flow into the next strike or cover.
Coaching points
- Let the hips and stance drive the punch rather than the shoulder alone.
- Keep the elbow line tight so the strike travels straight.
- Return the opposite hand with intent to finish the technique cleanly.