Single Arm Defence Against a Straight Punch

The Single Arm Defence is a fundamental technique used to block and counter a straight punch, such as a jab or cross, using one arm. This technique is highly effective for quickly neutralising an incoming strike while keeping the other hand free for counterattacks or additional defences. It’s a versatile move that can be adapted to various situations in boxing, kickboxing, and self-defence. Here’s how to execute the Single Arm Defence against a straight punch:

Step-by-Step Description:

1. Starting Position:
• Fighting Stance: Begin in your fighting stance, with your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and hands up protecting your face. Your lead hand (typically the left hand for orthodox fighters) should be in front of your face, while your rear hand stays close to your chin, ready to defend or counter.
2. Recognise the Punch:
• Identify the Attack: As your opponent throws a straight punch towards your head or body, quickly recognise the trajectory and prepare to block. The single arm defence allows you to react swiftly while maintaining balance and readiness.
3. Raise the Defending Arm:
• Lead Hand Defence: If the punch is coming from your opponent’s lead hand, raise your lead arm to meet the punch. Your arm should move diagonally across your face or body, creating a barrier between the punch and its target.
• Rear Hand Defence: If the punch is coming from your opponent’s rear hand, raise your rear arm to block. This arm should also move diagonally across your face or body, depending on the height of the punch.
4. Block the Punch:
• Deflect the Strike: Use your forearm to absorb and deflect the impact of the punch. The block should be firm but controlled, ensuring that you redirect the punch away from its intended target rather than just absorbing the full force.
• Maintain Visual Focus: Keep your eyes on your opponent throughout the block, allowing you to anticipate their next move and react accordingly.
5. Position Your Hand:
• Lead Hand Block: If blocking with your lead hand, position your hand so that your palm faces inward or slightly downward, allowing your arm to act as a shield. Your elbow should be bent, creating a strong frame.
• Rear Hand Block: If blocking with your rear hand, position your hand similarly, ensuring your arm covers the centreline of your body or face to prevent the punch from landing.
6. Counterattack or Reset:
• Immediate Counter: After successfully blocking the punch, you can immediately counterattack with a quick strike, such as a jab, cross, or hook, using your other hand. The single arm defence keeps you balanced and ready to launch a counter.
• Reset Your Stance: If a counterattack isn’t immediately necessary, quickly reset your defending hand back to its guard position, ready to block or strike again if needed.
7. Maintain Awareness:
• Stay Alert: Continue to observe your opponent’s movements, staying ready to defend against further attacks or create openings for your own strikes. The single arm defence is most effective when you remain focused and adaptable.

Key Points for Single Arm Defence Against a Straight Punch:

• Raise your defending arm quickly to block and deflect the punch.
• Position your forearm to absorb and redirect the strike, keeping your arm strong and slightly bent.
• Keep your eyes on your opponent to anticipate their next move.
• Counterattack or reset your stance immediately after the block, staying ready for further action.
• Maintain balance and awareness throughout the defence, ensuring you’re prepared for follow-up attacks.

The Single Arm Defence is a simple yet effective technique that allows you to defend against straight punches while maintaining the ability to counterattack. By using one arm to block, you keep the other arm free, providing versatility in both offence and defence. This technique is essential for any striker, whether in boxing, kickboxing, or self-defence scenarios.