alance. If the martial artist cannot attack the opponents other leg then, the martial artist should go for the head or hit the opponent with an open fist or hand strike (Hallander, “He” 62). Speed is always needed for a counter attack. To gain speed the martial artist can use the opponent’s body for leverage and momentum (64).There are many different punching techniques, styles that are animal like: The “mantis” is used for blocking the strike; the “eagle” is used for pressure points; and the “tiger” is used for clawing, scraping and scratching. All of these techniques help by strengthening the martial artist, then by strengthening the techniques (Sareyvoth). “The mantis is like praying, you learn this by blocking. The eagle is conditioned by doing finger push-ups and striking sand or gravel; the tiger is the same as the eagle”, explains Sareyvoth.“A form is a series of different techniques put together” states Tan. The formsbuild strength, speed, confidence, coordination and balance. There are over 15 forms; there are also some hidden forms that only high rank masters know (Tan). The forms are taught by belt color, the higher the belt, the harder the form (Sareyvoth).Breaking a target should never be done to test sheer force, or brutal strength, but used for power, aim and focus (Hallander, “Breaking” 1). Breaking can be done with kicking techniques to check the correctness of the technique. The martial artist should have full knowledge of correct form, Ki development and proper conditioning (1). When breaking the martial artist should use either the hand or the foot on a 12x12x1-inch board. When using the foot to break the martial artist should use the ball or side, the bottom, or back of the heel to prevent injury (1).The rules for breaking are always to start light, do not try to break anything too advanced for the martial artist’s skill...
