What constitutes a "Real" punch

[jaymac]

If you are doing it for a record, get ahold of guiness world records and ask them what their requirements are for most punches in 60 seconds.

[Eric_]

Absoloutly.

Punch:

–noun 1. a thrusting blow, esp. with the fist.

2. forcefulness, effectiveness, or pungency in content or appeal; power; zest: a letter to voters that needs more punch.

–verb (used with object) 3. to give a sharp thrust or blow to, esp. with the fist.

As per the above description from the dictionary, a punch is about force. If there is no force, it is not a punch. Tapping something with a closed palm does not constitute a punch.

Actually, the second definition (the only one to mention "force") regards an entirely different use of the word "punch." This is used in such cases as "This vodka has a real punch," and implies potency, having nothing to do with an actual strike. The only definition to apply to this situation is the first, in which case making any contact with the pad using a "thrusting blow . . . with the fist" meets all of the requirements of a "punch."

On a less technical side, it would be impossible to fairly set a minimum for how hard a punch needs to be, especially when you consider the differences in size and strength from one person to the next. Requiring contact alone is the only way to set an objective standard.

While I personally would be more impressed by your stronger punches, it was a contest of speed and not effectiveness, and his punches were faster.

[Jiffy]

It also deoesn't mention about the execution of a punch. So by your theory, I cold hold my fists half an inch from the pad and tap the pad in a druming like manner at rapid speed and still qualify. But the question is, is a punch a punch if there is no force. I would like to suggest that it's not. A thrust is a thrusting movement. You cannot thrust without power. It all depends on definition. I don't think there should be a minimum on anything too high, just sufficient to prove it's a good punch. Or maybe, get the person to do a strength test. Get them to punch full force, then maybe set the limit at 25% of their maximum or something.

[Eric_]

Get them to punch full force, then maybe set the limit at 25% of their maximum or something.

Not a bad idea.

[bushido_man96]

Absoloutly.

Punch:

–noun 1. a thrusting blow, esp. with the fist.

2. forcefulness, effectiveness, or pungency in content or appeal; power; zest: a letter to voters that needs more punch.

–verb (used with object) 3. to give a sharp thrust or blow to, esp. with the fist.

As per the above description from the dictionary, a punch is about force. If there is no force, it is not a punch. Tapping something with a closed palm does not constitute a punch.

Actually, the second definition (the only one to mention "force") regards an entirely different use of the word "punch." This is used in such cases as "This vodka has a real punch," and implies potency, having nothing to do with an actual strike. The only definition to apply to this situation is the first, in which case making any contact with the pad using a "thrusting blow . . . with the fist" meets all of the requirements of a "punch."

On a less technical side, it would be impossible to fairly set a minimum for how hard a punch needs to be, especially when you consider the differences in size and strength from one person to the next. Requiring contact alone is the only way to set an objective standard.

While I personally would be more impressed by your stronger punches, it was a contest of speed and not effectiveness, and his punches were faster.

That's the problem with using dictionary definitions to try to set standards for actions such as this. Often times what we preceive to be, and what the actual definition of it is, can be very different. Besides that, check the in the next new dictionary that comes out; it may change.

[DeeBoy]

thanks for all the replies, its much appreciated. yes there are lots of opinions out there, and yes he was the "faster" striker on the day. i congratulate him on his efforts, but as for being defeated in this challenge i couldnt help but feel ripped off to an extent.

i felt like making an offer to this person, and give him one minute to "punch" me and then allow me the same opportunity to see who came out better off. this would be another way of setting a standard .

anyway, as most people are saying there are too many variables. i think if they were to define the rules so it would eliminate speedball technique and make way for more technical punches, i might have another attempt. but if they are going to allow sloppy strikes i think i will just sit and watch these titles just handed out.

[jj19902003]

what constitutes a real punch? well i will tell you. when you put your whole body into it. twist your hips and snap it. drawing all the power from the floor that you possibly can and sending your opponent flying with a single blow. that is what constitutes a real punch. powerful punch. but since you were going for thw record of # of blows speed is what counts not force.