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CANE FOR FOR SENIORS: LESSON 3 Forward Jab

By: Debra Stewart MBA, MATLT, CDP, ACC/MC/E/AD/AC                                              Picture Yourself Stronger

The Forward Jab is a common striking point and it is based off the front stance. The first thing to consider is whether the person needs the cane for balance or not, because if they do then other measures might be suggested such as continued strengthening while living in a supportive environment where personal safety is less of an issue. Those who are less steady on their feet if they have stand-by-assist while lifting the cane for a forward thrust or jabbing motion can practice the technique for strengthening, but should not rely on this technique for self-defense until they become stronger.

The steps to follow for using the Forward Jab are to start in a front stance and then lift the cane parallel to the floor with both hands while pulling the cane backward toward the hip, then forward, and then returning the cane back to its starting position:

• Warm up with gentle stretching
• Begin in Front Stance
• Turn the crook of the cane out away from the body a bit so that the crook of the cane does not catch on clothing as this technique is practiced
• Bring the cane parallel to the floor and draw the cane back to the hip with both hands followed by a thrust forward to the attacker’s mid section and then a quick return to the original position
• Make sure that as the senior thrusts the cane forward that they stay centered and not leaning forward. The forward momentum and any forward leaning can create balance issues
• The reason that the Forward Jab is practiced by jabbing and then returning the cane back is to keep would be attackers from grabbing the cane when it is fully extended.
• It is best to practice this technique on both sides of the body
• It is best to practice this technique without a target until the senior is strong enough to strike a padded surface. Often students can knock themselves backward from the forward momentum and the sensation of striking something that is padded such as a heavy bag.
• Make sure that the student rests often and drinks fluids during the workout
• Allow time for cool down and stretching

Master Debra Stewart and the Forward Jab step one:

Master Debra Stewart and the Forward Jab Step Two:

Debra Stewart, MBA, MATLT, CDP, ACC, MC. AD. AC.E, ACE PT, Master Instructor for Tae Kwon Do at Chung’s Academy of Martial Arts. For more information about Cane Fu for Seniors, look for Debra's upcoming book, Self-defense for Seniors. Email Debra: pictureyourselfstronger@yahoo.com