Originally Posted by
Fu-Pow
Techniques that channel the force through the length of the bone seem to be safer because that is direction that bones are used to dealing with force. For example, a straight punch or thrust kick.
In the long term this seems to be a better long term strategy.
Thoughts?
I've had fun with this idea in relation to "soft" styles, Crane styles, and Wing Chun. "Soft" styles often claim applicability into old age, implying reduced bone structure. Consider as well that bird bones are hollow, fragile, and therefore susceptible to perpendicular impacts. The popular story about Wing Chun being made for a woman also implies a fineness and frailty of the bones.
IMO, perpendicular forces in relation to our own long bones are most effectively applied in the form of Fulcrums - setups, takedowns, trips, throws, locks, etc.
Christian
"It is the peculiar quality of a fool to perceive the faults of others and to forget his own." -Cicero