White Tiger Fist · Hung Gar Kung Fu
Gaw Choy — Downward Back Fist Strike
A downward snapping arc with the back knuckles — fast, sharp, and driven by sinking power from the waist.
What Is Gaw Choy?
Gaw Choy — "hooking fist" or "hanging back fist" — is a back fist strike delivered in a downward arc using the back of the knuckles. Power comes from sinking body weight while rotating the waist.
How to Execute
- Chamber: The striking arm chambers across the body or rises slightly to the side.
- Pivot and drop: Rotate the shoulder and hip into the strike while dropping your centre of gravity.
- Strike: Swing the fist downward in a sharp arc, elbow leading, wrist snapping at the end.
- Target areas: Bridge of the nose, collarbone, jawline, upper shoulder, or arms.
Key Points
- Power from waist rotation and dropping energy (sinking power).
- A snap with penetration — not a heavy swing.
- Strong wrist alignment to prevent injury.
- Often used as a follow-up after a high block or deflection.
Similar Techniques
Fist Strikes
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