I don't see a problem. Some different emphasis of principles is used in forms. That's actually pretty common in my experience - it's sort of the basis of the classical Japanese MA training approach, IMO. That doesn't eliminate the two really odd issues with your claims here:You agree with me that pattern mechanics are distinct from mitts practice. Punching principles is clearly pattern mechanics. This is your problem to solve, not mine.
- Just because a punch is identified separately (with additional principles) doesn't make it suddenly not within the category of attacks.
- Just because something is done differently in forms, that doesn't mean the same principles don't apply (they often are applied with different emphasis).