The jab is the foundation to any successful attack, but it is also essential in defence. Its speed and precision, allows you to pick off clumsy fighters and ward off even the most determined of attackers.
One of its uses in defence, is as a counter strike. Used to punish your opponent for their aggression. For when on the attack, gaps in your opponent’s guard, will open up and it is often the jab that you will use, as a precision tool, to strike through those gaps.
The Jab counter vs Kicks
Punches can be a great counter to a kick. Instead of exchanging kicks with your opponent, it is often more favourable to close the distance and return the strike with a punch. Although punches are outranged by kicks, their speed and ease of use make them a perfect counter.
To counter a kick, you must first neutralise the attack. This will be through a block, evade or catch. This is discussed in further detail in the relevant sections, however If the kick is aimed low then the most common defence, is a shin block. It is with this defence, that the jab counter is most useful.
Once contact is made, the opponent will need to return their leg before being able to move, it is during this period of immobility, that your opportunity to close the distance exists. Step forwards with your lead leg, whilst returning it from block position. As the jab is the most ranged of punches, this short step forwards will be all that is needed for you to be within arms reach.
When in said position, simply strike out at your opponent. As your opponent should only have one leg in contact with the ground, it is impossible for them to evade your punch, and blocking is their best chance to defend themselves. And so, a well placed counter-strike can easily place your opponent off balance. Any momentum in attack, that the opponent may have had, will now be lost and they will now find themselves on the defensive.
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