Pursuit punch
O -tsuki (literally: “lunge punch”), which we call a pursuit punch, is a reverse punch with a simultaneous forward step. Aikidōka call this a mune-tsuki ("middle punch").
Most untrained fighters intuitively step in while punching, to “throw their weight” into them for extra power. This is why many of our self-defense techniques are defenses against pursuit punches. While the large, lunging movement (stepping into range) is the main source of power, all of the general rules discussed in the overview, the front-foot punch, and the reverse punch still hold true.
From a front stance, or fighting stance, pull your rear leg up into a cat stance. In karate, everything must come in before it can go out; everything must be directed towards your centerline before it can be directed away from it. Then, push the unweighted leg forward, stepping into the other front stance, punching as you step. Your foot should trace a crescent-moon shape on the mat.
[video of pursuit punch from the front and from the side.]
Timing is everything; the punch must land at the exact moment that you lock yourself into your front stance. Attacking too early results in awkwardly pushing your opponent, like a shopping cart. Attacking too late results in a weak punch which only uses arm strength. You must have good control of your upper and lower body, moving them simultaneously with precise timing. As such, pursuit punches are an excellent coordination drill.
Your head should not bob up and down as you step; this wasted motion is the result of weak stances. Your head should remain in one level plane through the entirety of a pursuit punch. Likewise, you should feel great strain in your thighs, if not, then your [Center|center] is too high.
A strong punch will not feel strong, because the power comes from the legs and core muscles, and not the arms. The arms are just along for the ride, whipping and snapping into place. The gauge of good technique are the ends of your uniform's belt. Strong techniques are draw upon a snapping hip rotation, which makes the ends of your belt flail around. A still belt is the hallmark of poor technique, so be sure to “whip the hip.” (This is what powers Mr. Miyagi's "drum punches".)
