Jab vs. Backfist

[elbows_and_knees]

Although it doesn't mean you cannot follow through with a Jab, by definition of the word, Zorbasan is right. A jab means a quick piston type movement. For a "Power Jab" I don't think it's the same thing. It just a normal front hand strike. In Karate, we do use both, but they are called two different things.

Bit like the backfist difference you described. To us, two different techniques.... Uraken (back fist) and Tetsui (bottom fist)

point taken, but I don't know that definition applies in all cases. By definition, the term cross describes the trajectory of the punch - it does not imply that the cross is a power shot. However, as we all know, the cross is used as a power punch. Hook, uppercut - same thing. They describe they trajectory, not the amount of power associated with it.

[bushido_man96]

When we do a 'traditional' backfist, like in a form, we have a good chamber, and reaction force with the other hand, and the technique is very solid.

In sparring, or on the heavy bag doing combinations, I do more of the fast, flicking backfist. So for me, it just depends on the context I am throwing it in.

[ShotokanTre]

I think the most often forgoten thing about the backfist is that it is not a slap, it is a precision blow to the temple with the first two knuckles

[bushido_man96]

I just target the side of the head with my backfist. I don't worry about the small target areas.

[Steve_K]

The practicality of either really just depends on the position of your hand relative to your body. If your hand sits more to the outside of your body while in your fighting stance, then the jab would travel much easier than the backfist, however, if your hand sits more to the inside of your body, then a backfist would be more pracital.

By outside of your body I mean. If you are standing with your left leg forward, your fist sits to the left of your head, if you are looking forward. From that position a jab can be thrown more easily... if your fist sits to the right of your head, then a backfist is more easily thrown.

[bushido_man96]

Good point, Steve_K. Another factor would be the opponent's postition in regards to where you are standing at the time as well.

[Menjo]

The practicality of either really just depends on the position of your hand relative to your body. If your hand sits more to the outside of your body while in your fighting stance, then the jab would travel much easier than the backfist, however, if your hand sits more to the inside of your body, then a backfist would be more pracital.

By outside of your body I mean. If you are standing with your left leg forward, your fist sits to the left of your head, if you are looking forward. From that position a jab can be thrown more easily... if your fist sits to the right of your head, then a backfist is more easily thrown.

I agree in general. However I would choose to use the elbow as a reference for this comparison.

Being taught of how to use a back fist in the only way I can use, the position of the hand would be far less important as appose to the position of the elbow, and more importantly how your center, guard, and habits are. The fist is more a specific result of your elbow and obviously the rest of your body, but the elbow referance and the farther you travel into the body, may carry a better broader point, allowing to expand if you are doubted...Instead of having to restate similar points.

Any technique from my habits would result in a technique lacking if it wasn’t centered, rather than having limbs more to the outside, which would cause to me waste time to use my whole body to follow through. Which might exclude similar styles teachings.

But I think in whole my point generaly falls into your position, as naturally, most people depending on the style I think would fall right into your explanation.

[Jiffy]

Steve_K, that's absoloutly correct. The usefulness of these techniques will greatly be decided by the position of the opponents and various limbs.

[ThePhenom]

back fists are stronger and can knock some one out a lot easier then a wimpy jab

[bushido_man96]

back fists are stronger and can knock some one out a lot easier then a wimpy jab

I think a spinning backfist could knock someone out, but a regular backfist, I am not so sure. As for me, I would not underestimate the power of a good, stiff jab. Sure, it may not knock someone out, but I would not consider them wimpy.