Matthew Sylvester has been training in the Martial Arts since 1991. He currently studies Ao Denkou Jutsu, Kempo Ryu Karate, Tae Kwon Do and Shunryu Kempo.

This issue we take a look at how pressure points can be applied in a Kempo class.

As far as I can ascertain, nearly every technique within the Kempo Ryu (and thus by default all other forms of Kempo/ Kenpo that use the Ed Parker forms) either hits a pressure point or a vulnerable spot on the body (such as the testicles, nose, eyes etc.,).

Even the first Yellow Tip/ Belt techniques have pressure point strikes and grabs.

For the purpose as to how pressure points are used in Kempo Ryu I will be using Shield and Hammer as an example. For those not involved in Kempo arts, the names of techniques all mean something. Lone Kimono means a single hand (left) lapel grab. Anything with Feathers refers to hair, branches are legs, wings are arms, twigs are fingers, storm techniques are defences against stick/ weapon attacks, gifts are hand/ arm grabs and so on. So, whilst they might well sound funny, they do have a serious meaning and should be taken at more than face value. Rather like Gedan Barai, the names imply a lot more they suggest.

So on to the subject of how to hurt your attacker more efficiently. Remember, this is Shield and Hammer, a Kempo technique and might even vary from Kenpo. This defence is against a swinging left hand punch (a hook).

1. Standing naturally with feet together, step back with your left foot to 6 o'clock into a right neutral stance as you deliver a right extended outward block to the inside of opponent's left hooking punch at his forearm as your left hand guards against a followup attack with the right. This should strike the additional lung point, especially if you rake your hand back slightly.

2. Immediately deliver a right inward raking back knuckle strike to opponent's bridge of nose or the philtrum. This should hit GV26 and/ or LI 20. You can get both so long as you use the rake to hit LI20 first and continue down

3. Shuffle forward while continuing the counter clockwise motion of your right hand and follow-up with a right horizontal dipping outward elbow strike to opponent's solar plexus/ throat as your left hand checks high for a possible heel palm and claw to opponent's face.

4. Drop into rear stance and deliver a right hammer fist to the groin. This is the point at which the left hand check should be able to claw them as their head moves forward.

5. Right leg scoop kick to the point just behind their testicles (I always called it the Crossbar point as I found it riding my bike as a kid) as you move out and cover.

6. Should the opponent look as though they are going to try again, you can always launch a side kick to their knee or chest.