Overhand punch

The rear overhand punch is a powerful, looping strike designed to go "over" an opponent's guard. The mechanics are similar to throwing a baseball. It involves a coordinated step, weight transfer, and footwork for balance. Your front foot steps forward and slightly to the left (for an orthodox stance), mirroring the arc of the punch. As you step, shift your weight onto your front leg to put your full body weight behind the punch. The stepping motion naturally creates the arcing path of the punch, helping it circle around your opponent's guard. If the fighter is in a bladed stance the back foot stays in place, maintaining a wide base. This allows the fighter to fall back easily after throwing. This leaves the fighter open to counters so they must roll out to the right after landing to avoid a counter-punch. From a squared stance the back foot is brought forward to follow the step as this generates more twisting power and keeps your feet squared under your body. It also provides better balance and makes it harder to knock you off-balance if countered. ==Setups and Counters==

An overhand should be set up to be effective. Common setups include: Using a jab to preoccupy the opponent before looping the overhand over their guard. It can also be used when an opponent lowers their lead hand. ==Defense and Counters==

Defense relies on distance, angles, positioning and anticipation. A fighter should maintain a good stance, use their lead hand for protection, study their opponent's habits to anticipate the punch, and always look to counter after defending, as the attacker is most vulnerable immediately after throwing it. • Wedge block — almost straighten your lead arm and angle it out to intercept the circular punch. You can then wrap the arm to tie up the opponent. • Roundhouse Kick — Time a left roundhouse kick to the exposed right side of the body as the punch is thrown. • Takedown — As the opponent drives forward with the committed punch, change levels to avoid it and shoot for a takedown against their compromised balance. ==References==