Yoko Uraken Uchi - Side Backfist Strike

Overview

The expression "yoko ura uchi" literally translates as "side back strike". It's one of my favourite strikes, and is a great kumite technique when delivered to the front. Used as a counterattack, or as part of an aggressive combination, it's an extremely effective technique that can be used successfully against novice and experienced fighters alike. One of the best ways to disguise the technique in a combination is to attack your opponent's arm from the outside with a downward pressing soto uke, then launch this technique over the top with your other arm. Target areas for this strike depend upon your proximity to your opponent, but the temples, side of the jaw, side of the neck, and bridge of the nose are your most likely targets.

Technique

Although we most frequently practice this strike to the side, you're more likely to use it to your front. However, for the sake of consistency, I'll describe the side version. Make a fist with both hands and rest your right fist on top of your left, with both palms facing towards your stomach. Your lower hand should be level with your navel (belly button), and your hands should be an inch or so in front of your stomach.

Now look to the right, and point your right elbow at your target. Quickly extend your forearm with your wrist bent forward. When your forearm is almost straight, relax your wrist so that your tightly clenched fist whips backwards, striking the target with the back of your knuckles. Pull your forearm back before your knuckles fully strike the target to increase the whipping action.

After the strike, return your hand to its former position on top of your left hand. Look to the front. If you are doing line drills and plan to follow up with a strike to the left, your right fist should return to a position below your left one, which is raised a fist-width to accomodate it.