What is considered an example of secondary strikes?

Secondary strikes refer to follow-up techniques that can be employed after an initial strike to maintain control over an opponent or to capitalize on their reaction. The knee strike is an excellent illustration of a secondary strike because it is often used in close quarters to quickly capitalize on an opponent's weakened position or disadvantage after an initial engagement.

For instance, if an individual uses a primary strike to create an opening—such as a palm heel or fist strike—followed by a knee strike, they effectively leverage the opportunity presented by their initial action to gain further control or inflict additional damage. The close proximity required for a knee strike makes it particularly effective in a self-defense scenario where the distance may be reduced following an initial engagement.

In contrast, while palm heel strikes, fist strikes, and impact pushes are characteristics of primary strikes aimed at impacting or damaging an opponent, they do not represent secondary strikes in the same manner that a knee strike does. They serve different purposes in a series of defensive actions and are typically not employed as immediate follow-ups in the same way that a knee strike can be utilized after an initial contact.