Fist alignment

[Lizard]

Ok recently Ive decided that I prefer a vertical fist alignment, because Ive heard that it is less likely to damage ones hands and wrists to punch this way, also it feels more powerful (though this could be entirely psychological).

Opinions?

[AznWarrior]

What do you mean.... are you talking hooks and uppercuts as opposed to jabs and straights??? Im lost lol.

[Penance]

I dont know what you mean by vertical and horizontal

[mma_fan81]

What the hell? Are you trying to say you were born with deformed mutant hands that have the fingers stacked on top of each other. Get an amputation, man.

[AznWarrior]

Ohhhhhh, I get it now. Hes saying, would you put your fist in a horizonatal position(like a boxer), or vertical, in other words turning your fist sideways so when your fist is clenched it would be as if you were holding a hammer. Im gonna have to go with traditional(horizontal) it's more natural and powerful.

[RYO9]

why just stick to one. i use a horizontal fist, but i also use a vertical fist. it all depends on the situation.

Mullins

[THT]

horizontal with the twist at the end to cut them. without gloves I would be extra careful now to not let my elbow go out and cause the pinky metacarpals to impact.

[Patrick G.]

When throwing a straight punch, a diagonal fist position is actually the most natural....don't believe me? rest your arms natually to the side and see where they fall...thank me later...

[SamuraiGuy]

Yeah for Krav Maga they teach you to punch vertical, at least on straight punches anyway... dont know about the others.... they say you can turn your hand a bit, but prolly not more then 45 degrees in.. (obviously in)....

There are other reasons for the vertical punching too.. but thats just how it impacts the punching.