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Combinations

Intro

Combinations are two or more attacking techniques applied in rapid succession. A combination may be as simple as a double jab, or it may be a series of punches and kicks that culminate in a throw with a final hold-down or lock. Since combinations may be composed of almost any type of block of attack, the easiest way to classify them is by the way the forces of the attacks are applied.

Unified force combinations

Unified force combinations are a series of techniques that apply forces sequentially in a single direction. For example, a left back fist, followed by a right ridge hand and a right round kick are executed to the left side of the opponent's head. The force applied by each strike adds to the force applied by the previous strike. The applied force caused by the accumulation of strikes in one area is greater than the applied force that would have occurred from one of the single strikes; thus, more damage may occur.

Circular force combinations

Circular force combinations are a series of techniques that sequentially apply forces that are generated in part by rotation around an axis in one direction. The axis is located along the vertical centerline of the body. The rotational force magnifies the force of each technique. The example of a unified force combination presented above is also an example of a circular vertical centerline. If each of the above techniques were applied to a different location of the body, the combinations would still be circular but not unified.

Opposing force combinations

Opposing force combinations are pairs of techniques that apply force in antagonistic directions. Each pair consists of two distinct movements that work in opposition to each other and yet are complementary. Whereas circular force combinations move in one direction in a circle, opposing force techniques move in either intersecting lines (left straight punch and right cross punch) or arcs (left hook punch and right hook punch).

Opposing force strikes are often used to set each other up. For example, a left hook is executed to the right of the opponent's head followed by a right hook to the left side of the head. The force of the left hook moves the opponent's head toward the left, moving it into the force of the oncoming right hook. The resulting force is greater than that which may have been generated by the right hook alone.

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