I have shown the ABC of striking and torque for power many times before. This video lesson is the next part: the D, E and F of waveform striking. It is a little extra that gives you a lot more speed of strike, and possibly a gain in power as well.

It is for anyone who already has a basic grasp of relaxed, waveform striking and wants to take it further. If you are brand new to waveforms, go back to the basics first, because this builds on them.

What a Waveform Is

A waveform is my way of generating real power without size or a big wind-up. Instead of a stiff, tense strike, the energy travels through a relaxed body and out through the striking weapon, like a wave travelling down a rope. The strike travels into and through the target rather than stopping on the surface.

That matters in self-defence and in pressure point fighting. A tense strike looks hard but often bounces off. A relaxed waveform puts far more of its energy into the target, which is exactly what you need when you are hitting a pressure point on someone who is moving and full of adrenaline.

Why Speed Comes From Relaxation

Tension is the enemy of speed. A tense muscle fights against the movement you are trying to make. The more relaxed you are until the moment of contact, the faster the strike travels. That is why adding the right detail to a waveform can make a strike quicker without you trying any harder.

Speed also helps power. A faster strike carries more energy, so a small gain in speed often brings a gain in power with it.

Common Mistakes

  • Tensing the shoulders before the strike starts
  • Pushing with the arm instead of letting the body drive it
  • Stopping on the surface of the target instead of going through it
  • Rushing to add the new parts before the basics are solid

How to Practise It

Work slowly at first, on a pad or bag, and feel the wave travel through the body. Only add speed when the movement is smooth. Then test it on a pad held by a partner, who will tell you straight away whether it feels heavier. If you train strikes on a partner's body, keep the power low and the control high, and never strike the head or neck hard in practice.

Training this is well worth the time. Absorb it properly and it will improve every strike you throw.

Take It Further

Waveforms are a core part of the Pressure Point Fighting Course, and Power Black is all about striking power. For the bigger picture, read Pressure Point Fighting: The Complete Guide.