ATTACK TECHNIOUE
(Gong Gyokgi)

The attack is executed in the form of punching, striking, thrusting, cross cutting, pressing and breaking. Since three of these techniques punch, strike and thrust – are so closely interrelated in principle, it may be difficult to make a clear distinction among them. The purpose behind each technique, as well as the method, differs slightly. A punch is used primarily to cause an internal haemorrhage rather than surface damage by twisting the attacking tool. A thrusting motion, however, is delivered with an intention to cut through the vital spot with less twisting of the attacking tool. A striking motion is used to destroy or break the bone or muscles of vital spots with the least twist of the attacking tool. The pressing and breaking motions are illustrated in the self-defence technique of the Encyclopaedia. The attack is named in accordance to the relative position of the attacking tool; the angle facing the target, the method of attack and the stance taken. For exercise purposes, each target position (e.g. high, middle and low) corresponds to that of the attacker’s position.
 
 
 
 
The basic principles are:
 
1. Jerk the hip and abdomen throughout the action, slowly at the beginning and sharply at the moment of impact. The hip is jerked slightly before the action in order to concentrate the larger muscles of the hip and abdomen together with the smaller muscles of the four extremities against the target simultaneously.
  
2. Completely twist the attacking tool, with few exceptions, in order to use full acceleration.
  
3. Tense the abdomen at the moment of impact by exhaling sharply.
  
4. The moment the attacking tool reaches the target, pull it back to allow it to be   ready for the next action while preventing a grab by the opponent.
  
5. The attacking tool usually will form a triangle with the shoulders at the  moment of impact when attacking the opponent in front.
 
6. Hold the breath while attacking or blocking.