Re: Center line principle -- overrated?
Posted: Sun Apr 08, 2018 5:39 pm
Hmm, I think "center line" theory is a broad category. I think that wing chun (and other arts) focus on the center line, especially in terms of defense, but I think tcc's approach to "the center" is very different. Otoh, the "center" of a human body is what it is. I.e., it holds a lot of important physical stuff that has little to do with philosophy. For ex., if we were considering the use of any weapon, guarding the heart --at least- would be obvious. Keeping a blade between you and the opponent is just practical imo. But, it does relate to this discussion of western boxing.
There have been boxers who've specialized and become champions using either straight punches or hooking punches. One is not superior to the other. Frazier was a hooker, and he beat Ali. Ali specialized in straight punches, and he beat Frazier.
When it comes to wide, looping punches, it is true that they might be more successful overall than straight punches. I don't think it's because they're superior. I think it's just harder to become good at straight punching, including jabs and crosses. So, when it comes to techniques that work, it's fair to start from the assumption that the puncher is good at what he does. If he is, then wide punches might work, if you don't get hit. Though, taking a hit in order to get inside might be a logical tactic if one is a grappler. That's the same for all types of punchers.
But, in terms of punching, browse through some examples of good jabbers, hookers, and crossers. Just for fun.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IBnBcGst5CI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XY6N5iUKQY4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uEUvfIvs1fo
There have been boxers who've specialized and become champions using either straight punches or hooking punches. One is not superior to the other. Frazier was a hooker, and he beat Ali. Ali specialized in straight punches, and he beat Frazier.
When it comes to wide, looping punches, it is true that they might be more successful overall than straight punches. I don't think it's because they're superior. I think it's just harder to become good at straight punching, including jabs and crosses. So, when it comes to techniques that work, it's fair to start from the assumption that the puncher is good at what he does. If he is, then wide punches might work, if you don't get hit. Though, taking a hit in order to get inside might be a logical tactic if one is a grappler. That's the same for all types of punchers.
But, in terms of punching, browse through some examples of good jabbers, hookers, and crossers. Just for fun.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IBnBcGst5CI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XY6N5iUKQY4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uEUvfIvs1fo