ដាល់ក្បាល

Dar Kbal (Overhand)

Difficulty: IntermediateAll Strikes

The overhand is a looping power punch that arcs over the opponent's guard, targeting the top or side of the head. In Kun Khmer, it is used against opponents with a high guard or taller fighters, and can be an effective setup for clinch entries.

Steps

From your stance, shift weight slightly to the rear foot while raising the striking hand above shoulder height.
Drive forward off the rear foot, rotating the hips and torso while bringing the fist down in a looping arc over the opponent's guard.
Connect with the knuckles on the top of the head, temple, or behind the ear as you drive through.
Immediately recover your guard and base, as the overhand can leave you off-balance.

Key Points

The overhand works best when the opponent has their hands high, allowing the punch to arc over the guard.
Commit to the shot — the overhand requires full body engagement to be effective.
Combine with a level change or step to the outside to improve the angle of attack.

Common Mistakes

Throwing the overhand without setting it up, making it predictable and easy to counter.
Falling forward after the punch, losing balance and leaving yourself vulnerable.
Aiming too high and striking the top of the forehead, which can injure the hand.

Targets

Temple
Top of head
Behind the ear
Jaw

Dar Kbal (Overhand)

Steps

Key Points

Common Mistakes

Targets

Related Content

Dar Mat (Jab)

Dar Chong (Cross)

Dar Khorl (Hook)