The Lead & Rear Hook Punch

The hook punch is a very important close range weapon in the Jeet Kune Do armoury. To execute the hook punch, the opponent must be within punching range. The hook punch can be a short distance or a long distance punch that targets the opponent’s temple or jaw area.

The Science Behing The Hook Punch

The lead hook punch is a lightning fast non telegraphic punch because of the short distance that this punch has to travel. There is no indication to the opponent that this punch is coming giving it the powerful element of surprise. An accurate, well timed lead hook punch will knock out the opponent. The rear hook punch like the lead hook punch is also a very effective weapon. Because the rear hook punch travels a longer distance than the lead hook punch it is more powerful. However, the rear hook punch gives indication to the opponent and does not have the same element of surprise as the lead hook punch. So even though the rear hook punch is more powerful than the lead hook punch it is not as deadly. The element of surprise in a fight is what determines the outcome along with timing, accuracy, and speed.

Step 1

Get into the On Guard Position

LEAD HOOK

Step 2

While keeping your rear hand up to guard your side, use your lead leg as a pivot to shift your weight slightly to your rear leg while drive the hook punch (palm facing down) into the side of your opponent’s face. Remember to strike with the last three knuckles. This is all one fluid motion. You can target the jaw are or the temple. A well connected strike to the temple can result in death. After striking the target bring back your fist and return to the On Guard Position.

Rear Hook

Step 2

While keeping your lead hand up to guard your side, use your rear leg as a pivot to shift your weight slightly to the lead leg while driving the hook punch (palm facing down) into the side of your opponent’s face. Remember to strike with your last three knuckles. This is one fluid motion. Target the jaw area or temple. A well connected strike to the temple can result in death. After striking bring your fist back to the On Guard Position.

JAGATH CHANDANA CALDERA

Jagath is the founder & chief instructor of the Sri Lanka Jeet Kune Do Association registered under the Sports Ministry. He is the former physical fitness & mental well being trainer of the Sri Lanka Golf Team and the Sri Lanka Navy Golf Team.

Jagath has been trained by International Jeet Kune Do instructors such as Rocky Randel. Rocky Randel was trained by Dan Inosanto a student of Bruce Lee making Jagath a 3rd generation student of Bruce Lee. Jagath is also a certified Jeet Kune Do Instructor from The Liahona Warrior Arts International USA.