The Three Functions of Footwork

Footwork serves three essential purposes in martial arts: closing distance, creating angles, and generating power. The curved step, also known as the curving push, accomplishes all three functions simultaneously. This technique forms the foundation for both advancing and intercepting opponents effectively.

Positioning for Angular Advantage

When both fighters share the same lead stance with aligned feet, the practitioner must reposition to gain a more advantageous angle. Achieving an opponent's center line provides superior striking opportunities while simultaneously limiting the opponent's available tools. Proper angular positioning ensures the practitioner's techniques face the opponent while the opponent's tools face away.

Speed Over Sequential Movement

Traditional stepping followed by striking proves too slow when exploiting openings, as the opponent will escape or reposition. The curved push combines footwork and striking into one simultaneous action. This integration delivers superior speed and power compared to separate stepping and striking motions.

Mechanics of the Curved Push

The front foot points toward the target at a 45-degree angle to the opponent's center line while the back foot generates the pushing force. This creates a corkscrew-like motion where the practitioner simultaneously moves into position and prepares offensive options. The technique positions the fighter directly down the opponent's center line upon completion.

The Critical 45-Degree Angle

A common error occurs when practitioners curve to a 90-degree angle, which misaligns both the practitioner's and opponent's positioning. The correct 45-degree angle maintains offensive tool alignment while creating the angular advantage. Moving beyond 45 degrees negates the positional benefits the technique is designed to achieve.

Advancing to Close Distance

When the opponent remains stationary or retreating, the practitioner must push forward to close the gap while angling the front foot to 45 degrees. The back foot initiates the pushing motion while the front foot points toward the opponent's center line. This forward curved push maintains the angular advantage while eliminating distance.

Interception Against Advancing Opponents

When an opponent advances with an attack, matching their forward momentum by pushing creates a collision rather than a tactical advantage. Instead, the practitioner curves laterally while maintaining the 45-degree front foot angle, staying on the lateral plane as the opponent pushes forward. This lateral curve positions the practitioner to intercept strikes while the opponent's own momentum drives into the counter.

Tool Velocity Precedes Foot Placement

The striking tool must move before the feet complete their repositioning to beat the opponent's next defensive or offensive action. If foot placement precedes tool extension, the opponent will have already transitioned to another motion. Leading with the tool ensures the practitioner arrives at the interception point first, making the technique effective.

Learn How to Angle When You Punch | Sifu Adam at NY Martial Arts Academy

NY Martial Arts Academy

Standard New York

3 min read·8 key moments·PT5M30S video

Key Takeaways

•The Three Functions of Footwork
•Positioning for Angular Advantage
•Speed Over Sequential Movement
•Mechanics of the Curved Push

A key point of martial arts is knowing how to avoid getting hit. Head movement, footwork, and even getting an angle when throwing a punch are key techniques for this. Learn from Sifu Adam as he teaches students at NY Martial Arts Academy how to angle or curve as we throw a lead jab. In Jeet Kune Do, a curve step with a jab is referred to as a corkscrew. It’s a traditional boxing jab with a very specific type of footwork. The trick is to make sure your mass is moving towards the target and not away from it. Fighters typically want to avoid staying in one place for an entire combination as that is riskier than hitting as they move. What’s cool about this angle punch is you can use it as an interception when your opponent advances as showcased in this video. This gives you an advantage and allows you to avoid danger, hit harder, and attack again. Check out the NYMAA blog for more great content about avoiding contact from attackers: https://www.nymaa.com/martial-arts-blog.html

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about standard new york?

This video covers the three functions of footwork, positioning for angular advantage, speed over sequential movement. It provides detailed instruction from NY Martial Arts Academy.

How long does it take to learn standard new york?

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.