Speed Vs Power

[Haruhiko]

False. Power = Force x Velocity: This physics formula clearly shows that power requires both force (strength) and velocity (speed). An arm punch (e.g., jab) can be faster than a whole body punch (e.g., rear hand cross) but less powerful.

Punch Force - The Science Behind The Punch

Punch Force | Boxing | Strength and Conditioning | Sport Science | MMA

boxingscience.co.uk

This is the most MMA-science thing I've ever seen.

 

[Haruhiko]

What evidence do you have to support this? Studies have shown the opposite.

Excerpts from "Hand Speed Measurements in Boxing:"

"Not every punch has to be as fast as possible. Sometimes fast lead hand punches are used to break through the opponent’s defence in order to strike him with a powerful rear hand punch. With regards to technique the lead hand punch (jab) is different from the rear hand punch (cross). The jab is a fast but weak blow, delivered from the front hand...

In most cases, jabs had a higher velocity than the cross."

The example @PhotonGuy mentioned is a complex one, as it involves a system of connected masses acting together in acceleration, from a state of potential.

But I'm not sure that's what his point was to begin with - just that if you do intend to punch with the lead hand, you must move your centre of mass along with it to produce more force, just as a Taekwondo fighter would with their legs to kick a leading roundhouse kick. Assuming a right leg is in lead, you quickly push from the lead, immediately step with left then distribute (still moving) centre of mass on to left leg, and with the momentum, lift right leg up bent, and snap to kick with potential energy.

Sometimes if you're too fast, the momentum is "distributed" to the lead leg producing torque force which then rotates you backwards, and you can miss the landing of the step of the non-leading foot. And end up on your ****.

It's risky and can be unbalanced, but like boxing usually used to prod the guard.