Martial arts experts use their hands as weapons in a self-defense encounter.
A fist can be used to punch or strike the attacker.
Other parts of the hand can be used as a weapon in a life-threatening situation.
In this article we will show two techniques using various parts of the hand.
Punches are not the only use of the hand in a self-defense scenario.
Depending on the situation and the distance from the attacker the heel and the side of the hand can be used with martial arts techniques effectively.
Creating extreme pain or disabling the assailant is crucial.
Full force and follow through is necessary with any martial arts or self-defense technique.
Palm Heel The heel of the hand or the lower portion of the palm is the contact point.
The fingers and thumb are not used.
The strike can be aimed at the head or chest.
The palm heel is most effective when driven into the chin or nose of the attacker.
With enough force they can be driven backwards to the ground.
Side Hand The side hand technique is the classic martial arts "karate chop".
The contact point is the side of the hand opposite the thumb.
A strike with the side hand is typically at the side of the assailant's neck.
A strike to the front of the neck or throat can cause enough pain to stop the attack.
A strike to the nose can produce a sympathetic nerve response, the eyes tearing up, enough to allow for an escape.