Contents
Straight Heel Palm Strike in Kenpo Karate
The Heel Palm Strike is a powerful technique found in many martial arts, including Kenpo Karate. It is a versatile move that can be used in self-defense, sparring, and maintaining distance between you and an opponent. Below is a detailed breakdown of how to execute the Heel Palm Strike, its key targets, and important recommendations for safe and effective usage.
Key Targets for the Heel Palm Strike
- Face (nose, jaw, chin)
- Stomach and ribs
- Groin
The Heel Palm Strike can also be used to control the distance between you and your attacker. This makes it an excellent tool to either keep your opponent at bay or to maneuver around them without causing significant harm.
This strike can also be used as a block, you can block punches, strikes, and kicks. It all depends on the angle and the kind of attack.

Heel Palm Strike Step by Step
- Choose your target: Identify where you want to strike (face, body, or lower sections).
- Hand position:
- For strikes to the face, ensure your fingers point up.
- For strikes to the middle section, your fingers should point sideways.
- For strikes to the lower section, your fingers should point downward.
- Strike with control: Keep your arm semi-curved and avoid fully extending it to reduce the risk of elbow injury.
- Body positioning: Maintain a straight back and avoid leaning forward into the target.
- Follow up: Keep your other hand up and ready for additional strikes or defense if necessary.

Heel Palm Strike Recommendations
- Avoid overextending your arm:
When executing the Heel Palm Strike, never fully extend your arm. Overextending not only reduces your ability to generate power, but it also places unnecessary strain on your elbow joint, making it prone to hyperextension injuries. Keeping a slight bend in your arm allows you to absorb impact better and maintain control over your strike. This is especially crucial in fast-paced self-defense situations where your focus is on quick, powerful strikes. - Maintain a semi-curved arm for faster transitions:
Keeping your arm slightly bent, or “semi-curved,” is essential for both striking efficiency and versatility. A curved arm allows you to quickly transition into other techniques, such as an elbow strike, without losing momentum. In close-quarter combat, this adaptability is critical. For example, after a Heel Palm Strike to the face, you could immediately follow up with a powerful elbow to the ribs if your opponent is still within range. This quick adaptation can give you the upper hand in both offensive and defensive scenarios. - Always keep one hand ready for follow-up strikes:
The Heel Palm Strike is effective, but it may not always neutralize your opponent. That’s why it’s important to keep your non-striking hand up and ready for action. If the first strike doesn’t land perfectly or if your opponent is still a threat, your other hand should be positioned to immediately deliver a follow-up blow, block, or parry. This readiness ensures you maintain the upper hand and stay protected from counter-attacks. Having both hands in play also keeps you versatile, allowing you to transition into different martial arts techniques if needed. - Maintain proper posture:
A strong, stable posture is key to delivering an effective Heel Palm Strike. Always keep your back straight and your feet firmly planted, as this helps you generate power from your entire body, not just your arm. Proper posture also enhances your balance, reducing the risk of being knocked off course or losing control after delivering the strike. Remember that a well-executed strike involves your core, legs, and back working together to create a solid foundation. - Avoid leaning in when striking:
Leaning in too close to your target can severely compromise your balance and reduce the force of your strike. Leaning forward not only shifts your center of gravity but also exposes you to potential counter-attacks, as it becomes harder to defend yourself quickly. When striking, focus on using your arm and body mechanics rather than over-committing with your body weight. Keeping a safe distance from your opponent will allow you to strike with power while staying prepared for the next move, whether it’s another strike or a defensive maneuver.
Conclusion
The Heel Palm Strike is a highly effective tool in Kenpo Karate, providing both offensive and defensive capabilities. Whether you’re aiming to cause damage or simply maintain a safe distance, mastering this strike is essential for success in self-defense and sparring. Always remember to strike with control, maintain proper body mechanics, and keep your hands ready for follow-up actions. This ensures both safety and effectiveness in using this technique.
Kenpo Karate Techniques
- Kenpo Karate Techniques Page
- Kenpo Karate Stances
- Kenpo Karate Strikes
- Kenpo Karate Blocks
- Kenpo Karate Punches
- Kenpo Karate Kicks
- Kenpo Karate Foot Maneuvers
- Kenpo Karate Parries
- Kenpo Karate Finger Techniques
- Kenpo Karate Sets
- Kenpo Karate Forms
Follow our Social Media!