Legal and Safety Disclaimer

The instructor emphasizes that open-hand strikes are self-defense techniques only and should never be practiced on friends, family, or non-threatening individuals. Trained martial artists' hands are legally classified as weapons in many jurisdictions, and their use outside legitimate self-defense contexts can result in criminal liability.

Situational Context and Hand Positioning

The technique is applicable when an attacker approaches within arm's reach during a threatening situation. The striker must maintain proper hand structure with the thumb tucked inward and fingers curled tightly to prevent injury to the striking hand and maximize force transfer.

First Variation: Palm-Up Strike to the Neck

The first variation employs a palm-up open hand strike targeting the side of the neck. The striker generates power through hip rotation and body mechanics rather than arm wind-up, delivering a quick, powerful chopping motion downward toward the lateral neck and collarbone region.

Second Variation: Palm-Down Strike

When the attacker is positioned on the striker's right side, a palm-down variation allows striking the opposite side of the neck with similar power and intent. The striker must execute the technique rapidly and exit the confrontation immediately after impact to avoid prolonged engagement.

Third Variation: Straight Palm Strike to the Face

The most severe variation involves a straight open-palm strike targeting the facial region, including the nose, eyes, and throat area. Finger curling is essential to prevent backward finger extension on impact; this technique is reserved for situations where the defender faces serious threat to life.

Execution Principles and Training Protocol

All variations require maximum force application without hesitation or restraint during genuine self-defense situations. Solo practice and solo drilling are mandatory; practitioners must never test these techniques on training partners, family members, or non-consenting individuals.

3 DEADLY Open Hand Strikes

Sensei Berny

Open Hand Strike

2 min read·6 key moments·PT8M40S video

Key Takeaways

•Legal and Safety Disclaimer
•Situational Context and Hand Positioning
•First Variation: Palm-Up Strike to the Neck
•Second Variation: Palm-Down Strike

guys be really careful when practicing these 3 deadly open hand strikes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about open hand strike?

This video covers legal and safety disclaimer, situational context and hand positioning, first variation: palm-up strike to the neck. It provides detailed instruction from Sensei Berny.

How long does it take to learn open hand strike?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 6-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.