Kimbo's catch all question/answer thread.

[Kimbo123]

what makes snapping your wrist while punching make you punch harder

[HerbM]

Not 100% sure that it does, although that is what many believe. Maybe I even believe it, but haven't seen the actual proof so far.

If it offers any power help the it is because it makes your arm a VERY slight bit longer, it adds the rotation as another force, and/or it gives you a better mechanical position of the shoulder.

We do know that it helps get the shoulder up so your chin is better protected.

[tod]

I dont believe it adds any power instead it does put your shoulder in good defensive position in relation to your chin and it helps keep your elbow from flaring out

[HerbM]

Yes, that "elbow flare" (prevention) is another good point.

And to be specific, if you turn you hand anytime before the END of the punch then the elbow will necessarily flare out, turning it once the arm is practically straight (i.e., right at the end) will not matter.

So if you want to hit with a horizontal fist for any reason, including the 'shoulder position' being a better defensive posture then you must wait to turn it.