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The straight lead is one of the most effective techniques in JKD as well as being one of the most important. The principles involved in this attack are fundamental to all of JKD. This is only a very brief description. The straight lead is a very intricate and scientific punch. Its perfection takes a great amount of practice and deserves a lot of attention to the details. To effectively learn this punch requires hands on training. It cannot be completely understood from its explanation.
It is a punch that is launched from the leading hand. Although its mechanics are completely different, it can be equated to a boxers jab. Like the jab, it can be used as a feeler, to measure distance or to create openings for subsequent attacks. Unlike the jab, it , when performed correctly, can have the sting of a knock out punch.
From the ready position the hand is held loosely and relaxed. Pointing towards the target, the hand starts the motion straight and unswerving. Following the hand, the front foot lifts slightly off the ground. Quickly, the muscles of the rear leg push the forward, propelling the body weight behind the punch with great momentum.
The arm travels completely straight throughout the entire motion. Upon impact, the fist lands first, having been relaxed all the way through, clenching at the last moment with a final snap three inches past the point of impact. All energy and momentum are focused on the bottom three knuckles, the fist being held vertically. Followed by the fist is the front foot, and then the rear. The shoulder extends, and the hips snap, thrusting through the target. With the arm, shoulder, and hips in action the body forms a straight line (The power line) at the final destination. This facilitates a minimum amount of wasted energy. The entire body weight collides with the target.
Upon retraction, the arm is pulled back by the hips as quickly as it was launched. the body recovers into its original position smoothly, without loss of balance. With a clean recovery, you are ready for another attack.
The speed of the straight lead depends on the hand leaving first, creating the ultimate in non-telegraphic motion. Also, traveling in a straight line, it takes the shortest route possible.
The power depends on, the speed, its straight path, and the creation of the power line as explained earlier.
I will be sure to write more on the Straight Lead due to its significance to JKD as a whole.
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