Yes, this really can be done: a knockout by hitting the arm. In this video lesson I show the machete arm chop. At the very least it is going to create a takedown or knockdown, so you might as well go a bit harder and try for the knockout.

This one is for anyone who has seen a karate chop in a film and wondered whether it can ever work for real. Done right, it can.

Why Hit The Arm?

Most people think of knockouts as something that only happens from strikes to the head. But the arm carries nerves, and it is connected to the shoulder, neck and the rest of the body. Strike the right place at the right angle and the effect is not limited to the arm.

The arm also has big practical advantages:

  • It is often the closest target, especially when someone reaches for you or grabs you
  • It is hard for the attacker to protect while they are using it
  • Even a partial effect disrupts their balance and their attack

Why It Works Even When It Misses

This is what I like about it. Even if you do not get the full effect, a good strike to the arm still takes the person's balance and can put them down. That is why I say it creates a takedown or knockdown at the least. Either way, you have stopped the threat and made an opening.

Karate Chop Done Right

The traditional chop gets a bad name because it is often done stiffly, with all the tension in the arm. Done that way it looks impressive and does little.

The keys are:

  • Strike with the edge of the hand, relaxed until impact
  • Generate the power from the body, not the shoulder alone
  • Strike through the target with a short, whip-like motion
  • Hit at the right angle, not just the right place

Train With Control

Strikes that can cause a knockdown or knockout must be trained with care. Work slowly with a cooperative partner, use very light contact, and do your power work on pads or a bag. Make sure your partner is in a safe position in case their balance goes. In self-defence, only use force that is reasonable for the threat.

Take It Further

For more on targets, angles and relaxed power, see the Pressure Point Fighting Course. If you are new to pressure points, begin with the FREE Pressure Point Fighting Mini-Course.