PUNCHING AND STRIKING POWER

There are many factors that come into play when training your punches or strikes. Mathematically it would look something like this: P = M x V . In this equation P represents power, M represents mass, and V represents velocity. The amount of power in a strike or punch can be increased by increasing either of the two basic factors; mass or velocity.
Mass refers to the amount of mass or body weight the individual striking has behind the strike or punch. Although it isn’t possible to increase your weight or mass while punching, it is possible to increase the amount of your mass or weight that you put into the movement. This can be done by shifting your body weight in the direction of the punch or strike.
Velocity refers to the speed of the movement. The speed can be increased with a few different factors: Example. Rear hand linear punch. Driving forward with the rear leg moves your mass forward which increases velocity. After driving forward you should rotate your hips and shoulders forward in the direction of the punch. Each factor increases velocity a little on its own, forward momentum, hip rotation, shoulder rotation, and the forward movement of the arm. When combined together you are striking at maximum velocity with the amount of mass you have available, therefore putting out the maximum amount of power that you can generate.
The one thing that can detract from your punching/striking power more than anything else is muscle tension. For maximum striking power your movements should be thrown from a relaxed position. If your muscles are tense they provide resistance to movement. Any type of resistance will only slow you down and detract from your velocity.
Attention to detail and performing all of the movements discussed while in a relaxed state will allow you to punch/strike to your maximum potential with power and speed.
Written by:
Robert Mulnix – Founder of MushinDo Goshin Jitsu, 5th Degree Black Belt in Okinawan Te, 5th Degree Black Belt in JiuJitsu, Forner Marine Corps Instructor