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Anatomical Weapon - Hammer fists (part 1) (instructional video included)



Did you know that you were born with a self-defense anatomical weapon already in your arsenal? It's so effective that if you did not train in any martial arts, you would still be able to use this technique efficiently. That's the reason it is the first technique that I teach in my book, The Short Fight.


It's called the Hammer-Fist, and it is very easy to use. If you've ever seen an untrained child or adult try to defend themselves, you will see them lift their arms overhead, clench their fists and start "flailing" them at the assailant without thought. While this may look silly, it is actually a very powerful strike that can do a lot of damage.


Another great thing about hammer fisting is that you can deliver them from many positions. Whether you are standing, kneeling, on your back, or on top of an assailant, you will be able to defend yourself effectively with the hammer fist.


This week we will be covering performing the hammer fist from the standing position.


How to perform the hammer fist from the standing position:
  1. Start with your feet shoulder width apart in a neutral stance.

  2. Hold your hands up slightly above and in front of your head (protecting your face without blocking your vision), and clench your fists.

  3. Strike out and downward as fast as you can while turning your hip in the same direction, so your body follows the strike (put your body into your strike).

  4. Return your fist back to the original position, and perform the same technique with the other side. Practice single strikes and alternating fist strikes.

  5. Areas you should focus on striking are the nose, mouth, temple, the solar plexus and groin.

  6. Practice in the air, then on a heavy bag, or have a partner hold a large focus mitt

Below is a quick tutorial of how to perform the Hammer Fist. As always if you have any questions, feel free to contact me.


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Until next time, Stay Safe!

Lawrence Castanon,

Author, The Short Fight




Hammer fists from the standing position video 1









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