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ដាល់ឡើង

Dar Lut (Uppercut)

Difficulty: IntermediateAll Strikes

The uppercut is an upward-traveling punch targeting the chin or body. In Kun Khmer, the uppercut is particularly useful in close-range exchanges and can be devastating when an opponent ducks into the strike while trying to avoid hooks or elbows.

Steps

  1. From your fighting stance, slightly bend the knees and drop the striking hand by a few inches.
  2. Drive upward through the legs while rotating the hip on the striking side, extending the arm in an upward arc.
  3. The fist travels vertically upward with the palm facing you, connecting with the first two knuckles under the chin or into the body.
  4. Snap the hand back to guard position and reset your stance.

Key Points

  • The power is generated by driving upward through the legs — think of the punch as a full-body upward thrust.
  • Keep the arc tight and compact; the uppercut should travel the shortest distance possible.
  • This punch works best at very close range, making it an ideal transition strike between boxing and clinch work.

Common Mistakes

  • Dropping the hand too low before throwing, telegraphing the uppercut and leaving the head exposed.
  • Leaning back while throwing, which sacrifices power and balance.
  • Using a wide, looping arc that is slow and easy to see coming.

Targets

  • Chin
  • Solar plexus
  • Sternum
  • Floating ribs

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Last updated: August 2026