<< Click to Display Table of Contents >> Navigation:  Forms and Sets > Long Form 1 > Frequently Asked Questions > Why is the first offensive move in Long Form One the straight punch?

There are a number of reasons for this:

 

First, since, by definition, Long Form One must build upon Short Form One both physically and conceptually, and the next logical step from defense is offense - Long Form One moves from defense only to defense and offense. And, one of the easiest offensive moves to deliver is the straight punch.

 

Second, since Long Form One is primarily a closed hand form, it makes sense that the offensive maneuvers be closed handed as well - and one of the easiest and most commonly used offensive maneuvers is the straight punch.

 

Third, since the first defense executed in Short Form One / Long Form One is the inward block, it makes logical sense to execute the offensive maneuver that the defense is typically used against - the straight punch.

 

Fourth, all Short Form One defenses are executed from the front hand while in a Neutral Bow. And, since Long Form One must build upon this sequence, it makes logical sense to group as many opposites and new information into a single maneuver as reasonably possible. This was done by executing the new offensive maneuver from of the rear hand, demonstrating the opposite side, along with demonstrating a new stance - the Forward Bow.

 

Fifth (continuing from Four), all Short Form One defenses are executed using a Path of Travel - the opposite of this concept is Line of Travel - which the straight punch demonstrates.

 

Sixth (continuing from Four), all Short Form One defenses are executed using the side (forearm) of the weapon - the opposite of this concept is to use the tip (knuckles) of the weapon - which the straight punch demonstrates.

 

Note: for further reading about more information presented from execution of this maneuver - see the Analysis of Long Form One section of this guide.