Combinations

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 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, a right ridge hand, and a right round kick applied to the left side of the opponent's head. The force of each strike adds to the force applied by the previous strike. Over a period of time, the damage caused by the accumulation of weak strikes in one area is greater than the force that may be applied by any one powerful strike.

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 force combination, since the forces involve a continuous rotation of the body about its 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 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 to the head followed by a right hook to the head. The force of the left hook moves opponent's head toward the right, moving it into the force of the right hook. The resulting force is greater than that which may have been generated by the right hook alone.