10 COUNT STRIKING SYSTEM

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OVERVIEW

10 Count Striking System Overview

Below are the techniques for the 10-count striking system, each consisting of a specific strike combination designed to optimize power, efficiency, and adaptability.
The 10 Count Striking System teaches practitioners a series of 10 striking combinations to build instinctive self-defense responses. Combinations 1–5 progressively add strikes, while 6–10 are standalone three-strike patterns. Numbered for quick communication, the system is ideal for pad work and practical application, helping beginners and experienced martial artists master the essentials of combative striking while learning the most fundamentals strikes and striking patterns.

Numbers 1 — 5: Progressive Combinations

• #1 – Jab
  A single jab from the lead side (based on the forward leg), thrown straight along a “V” shape from the shoulder, using the middle and index knuckles for impact.
• #2 – Jab > Cross
  A jab from the lead side followed by a cross from the rear side, both thrown straight to maximize power and rotate explosively to improve power and efficiency.
• #3 – Jab > Cross > Lead Hook
  Jab and cross followed by a lead-side hook, with the fist adjusted for various ranges (thumb up for close range, thumb in for medium-to-long range).
• #4 – Jab > Cross > Lead Hook > Cross
  Builds on Strike 3 by adding a second cross from the rear side, emphasizing shoulder and hip rotation to keep punches efficient and face protected.
• #5 – Jab > Cross > Lead Hook > Cross > Uppercut
  Adds a lead-side uppercut to Strike 4, thrown outward and upward to target an opponent’s chin at a practical distance.

Numbers 6 — 10: Isolated Combinations

• #6 – Cross > Lead Hook > Cross
  A three-strike combination starting with a rear-side cross, followed by a lead-side hook and another cross, focusing on weight transfer, efficient body rotation and shoulder pulley mechanics.
• #7 – Lead Hook > Cross > Lead Hook
  The inverse of Strike 6, starting with a lead-side hook, followed by a rear-side cross and another lead-side hook, maintaining shoulder pulley mechanics.
• #8 – Rear Uppercut > Lead Hook > Cross
  Begins with a rear-side uppercut (outward and upward), followed by a lead-side hook and a rear-side cross, ensuring varied strike angles.
• #9 – Lead Uppercut > Cross > Lead Hook
  The inverse of Strike 8, starting with a lead-side uppercut, followed by a rear-side cross and a lead-side hook, keeping strikes fluid and adaptable.
• #10 – Cross > Lead Hook > Overhand
  Starts with a rear-side cross, followed by a lead-side hook and an overhand strike, where the head moves offline and the fist “pours” downward for impact (thumb pointed down).

ESSENTIAL DETAILS

1 > Lead & Rear

In the 10 Count Striking System the terms “lead” and “rear” refer to your stance and dictate which hand delivers the jab and cross. The lead side is determined by the leg positioned forward in your stance—typically the left leg for orthodox fighters (right-handed) or the right leg for southpaws (left-handed).

The jab always originates from the lead hand side, ensuring a quick straight punch to set up combinations, while the cross comes from the rear hand side, delivering a powerful straight punch from the back. These strikes alternate between lead and rear sides in the system’s patterns (e.g., jab-cross, or cross-hook-cross), creating a rhythmic flow that maximizes efficiency and power through shoulder rotation, as emphasized in the video.

2 > Safety Tips

For Strikers: To begin with, prioritize fist alignment to avoid injury. Specifically, use the middle and index knuckles for strikes. For instance, when throwing hooks, adjust fist position: thumb up for close-range, knuckles forward for longer-range. Similarly, uppercuts should extend outward and upward like a hammer to prevent wrist strain. Moreover, when performing pad work, ensure you do not hyperextend your arms on straight strikes and protect the wrist on circular strikes, such as hooks, uppercuts, and overhands.

For Pad Holders: Holding pads can be just as challenging as learning the striking patterns. Therefore, be sure not to jam your training partner’s strikes, as this can tweak or injure their wrist. Additionally, avoid limp-arm positioning when holding the pad, which could lead to over-extension elbow injuries, since your training partner will be expecting to make firm contact with a pad.

In conclusion, practice with an instructor at Triangle Self-Defense Training to ensure safe, correct form.

3 > Most Common Mistakes

Common errors in the 10 Count Striking System include:

• Incorrect Punch Trajectory: Throwing punches in an “X” shape instead of a straight “V” shape, reducing power.
• Improper Hook Fist Position: Not adjusting the fist (thumb up for close-range, knuckles forward for long-range).
• Uppercut Misplacement: Throwing uppercuts too close or straight up, instead of outward and upward.
• Lack of Shoulder & Hip Rotation: Failing to use shoulders and hips like a pulley will make strikes weak.
• Overextending Elbows: Extending elbows (or flaring the elbow) before hooks, telegraphing strikes.
• Forgetting To Recoil: Punches should recoil quickly to ensure proper defense and allowing efficient follow ups.

MINDSET & PRINCIPLES

1 > Combative Striking Mindset

For combative striking techniques you should think about the following:

• What Am I Hitting With?
• What Am I Targeting On My Opponent?
• How Do I Generate Power?

When hitting pads, think about what you are hitting with (closed fist, open palm, or elbow), what are are targeting on the opponent (jaw, temple, neck, etc.), and how to develop explosiveness and power (drive off the ground, hip and shoulder rotation, striking through the pad, etc.)

Visualize each strike as a tool for self-defense, ready to deploy instinctively. Trust the numbered system to simplify complex combinations. Focus on precision and speed over power, practicing consistently to make movements second nature. Build confidence by envisioning fluid execution, as taught at Triangle Self-Defense Training, preparing you for real-world scenarios.

2 > Core Principles

The system is built on:

• Precision Over Power: Focus on precision and speed over power.
• Lego Block Method: Start with a base technique or skill and build upon it.
• Economy Of Motion: Shoulder rotation ensures energy conservation.
• Variable Engagement: Varied strike angles make attacks harder to defend.
• Systematic Numbering: Simplifies instruction for rapid learning and partner drills.
• Practical Application: Designed for combative arts and real world defense scenarios.

3 > Street Considerations

For real-world use:

• Adjust for Distance: Use elbows instead of uppercuts in close quarters.
• Offline Movement: Move your head offline during overhands (Strike 10).
• Target Selection: Aim for the jaw or chin with middle and index knuckles.
• Maintain Awareness: Keep the non-striking hand up to protect your face.
• Practice Realism: Train strikes at realistic distances for self-defense.
• Striking Variations: The number system can be done with palm strikes and elbows.

4 > Reflex Drills & Development

Build reflexes with these drills:

• Pad Work with Number Calls: Respond to random number calls (1–10) on focus pads.
• Mirror Drills: Self-correct form in a mirror, focusing on straight punches and shoulder rotation.
• Distance Drills: Adjust hook and uppercut positions for varying distances.
• Shadow Boxing: Practice the 1–10 sequence for smooth transitions.
• Reaction Training: Counter simulated attacks with appropriate combinations.

TRAIN WITH US

Self-defense training is for everyone. For example, the 10 Count Striking System at Triangle Self-Defense Training in Durham, NC, welcomes beginners to experienced martial artists from all walks of life. Specifically, this program builds practical, real-world defensive skills while enhancing mind-body connection, coordination, and proprioception. In addition, beyond self-defense, it’s a fun, challenging way to get into great shape. Therefore, by joining our classes, you’ll train alongside a supportive community of like-minded individuals, all striving for confidence and readiness. Moreover, like a group of batteries powering together, our group amplifies your strength and potential.

Start your journey today to master effective techniques, boost your fitness, and connect with a dedicated team committed to personal growth.