"Original Quote" -- { I have noticed that most karate seems to neglect grappeling and close in fighting. }
I have been thinking about this subject a little and I have an interesting thought. A sensei told me once, that nothing is as it seems in the art of karate-do. I now understand what was implied.
What really defines grappling? "To grip and hold or wrestling with another, hand to hand".
Let us take a look at the reverse punch. As beginners, I think all styles introduce the use of 2 hands when punching reverse. One shoots out at the opponent, and the other pulls back to help the punching arm to thrust out, as we are taught, the 'Push, Pull' motion.
Lets take a look at the reateating or "pulling back" arm. This hand can be used as a grappling tool. Before the punch comes out, the retreating arm grabs the opponent, to control them for a strong counter strike. You can manipulate, grip and hold them, with this arm and you will find grappling elements wil be introduced.
That is one of the first things we are taught, and so many people fail to take the depth of their study beyond basic movements like punching and blocking. You will find that there are grappling elements in almost all techniques we are taught.
Seek that depth.
