Stance and Foundational Position

The spinning backfist begins from a proper fighting stance, which forms the foundation for all subsequent movements. Practitioners should be familiar with basic stance mechanics before attempting this technique.

Primary Execution Method: Cross-Step Entry

The instructor demonstrates crossing the lead foot across the centerline while simultaneously rotating the upper body. As the lead shoulder passes the centerline of the lead foot, the back foot steps across to complete the spinning motion and deliver the strike.

Striking Surface Variations

Two striking methods are available: the vertical spinning backfist using the back of the hand (effective with boxing gloves), and the spinning hammer fist using the bottom of the fist (preferred for ungloved striking to protect the hand). Glove padding on the vertical backfist protects the back of the hand and wrist bones.

Why Cross-Stepping Generates Superior Momentum

Static spinning without footwork results in limited reach and spinal rotation restrictions. The cross-step approach closes distance while generating substantial momentum, making the technique more effective against moving opponents.

Setup Using Jab and Hook Combinations

The spinning backfist is most effective when set up with preceding techniques. A jab or feinted left hook can cause the opponent to react defensively, creating the opening for the spinning backfist to land as they reposition.

Setup Using Kick Feints

Body kicks and leg kicks can serve as effective setups for the spinning backfist. The opponent's defensive response to the kick creates space for the cross-step entry and follow-up spinning strike.

Historical Application and Lineage

The technique has proven effective in professional competition, notably when executed by early UFC fighters as a follow-up to missed kicks. This historical validation demonstrates the spinning backfist's utility in high-level combat sports.

Training Value and Practical Integration

While effective, the spinning backfist should not be the focus of training time, as practitioners should prioritize fundamental techniques. Spinning and flashy techniques serve dual purposes: adding training variety to prevent monotony and expanding technical knowledge, despite their infrequent application in actual sparring or competition.

How To Do The Spinning Backfist | MMA

Danny Fung

Spinning Backfist

2 min read·8 key moments·PT7M17S video

Key Takeaways

•Stance and Foundational Position
•Primary Execution Method: Cross-Step Entry
•Striking Surface Variations
•Why Cross-Stepping Generates Superior Momentum

The Spinning Backfist can be used as an excellent offensive attack if used intelligently. In this video, I describe how I like to use it along with a few simple set-ups that work extremely well to help you land it. D&A. Thanks for watching and if you're new here HIT that SUBSCRIBE button and chime that notification bell to receive notification each time we upload a new video! FOLLOW: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ExperienceMMA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/experiencemma Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alextheprodigy101 Alex The Prodigy's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/alextheprodigy For seminars or private classes anywhere in the world, contact [email protected] EXPERIENCE MMA & FITNESS 388 St-Louis, Gatineau, Qc 819.643.8444 www.experiencemma.com MUAY THAI || JIU-JITSU || NOGI || MMA || BOXING || FITNESS KIDS & ADULTS Fully accredited Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu school affiliated with the World Muay Thai Council; The Sports Authority of Thailand; The Naikhanom Tom Muay Thai Association of Thailand; and Alliance BJJ, respectively.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about spinning backfist?

This video covers stance and foundational position, primary execution method: cross-step entry, striking surface variations. It provides detailed instruction from Danny Fung.

How long does it take to learn spinning backfist?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 8-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.