How to Do an Uppercut

The uppercut is a devastating punch that is utilized in various striking arts, from longfist kung fu to Thai boxing. It is a powerful punch that can be used either as a knockout punch or as a punch to set up other strikes, typically the cross or hook. Mike Tyson was known for his devastating uppercut.The uppercut is a fairly versatile strike, and may be used from a distance (though it is not recommended), at close range, as an offensive technique or as a counterpunch.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Assume a fighting stance, with your body angled, your feet about shoulder-width apart, your hands up and your chin down. Your weight should be evenly distributed across both legs. Do not stand flat-footed; being on the balls of the feet increases mobility.

2. Sink your weight. Keep the distribution even. Bring both fists to the sides of your face so that one is touching each cheek. This is done to protect the face while you are preparing to strike, as the uppercut is generally used as an infighting technique. Keeping your fists away from your face would leave you wide open to a counterattack.

3. Strike under the chin or to the midsection. Driving off of the ball of the rear foot, the fist will leave the face and the arm will create a 90-degree angle with the forearm. Using the momentum of the upward drive, pivot your body into the punch. Note that if you were throwing a lead hand uppercut, you would drive and pivot on the ball of the lead foot, similar to executing a hook punch. As stated before, the uppercut is an infighting technique. Do not reach with the arm--make sure that the angle is not more than 90 degrees. If it exceeds that, it's likely you are too far from your opponent. The fist should not travel upward any higher than eye level. This keeps your strike tight, reducing the opportunity for counterattack.

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