As you fall, your goal is to absorb the impact along your palms and forearms, and along the broad muscles in your upper back, while protecting your head and lower back from injury.
STARTING POSITION: Standing.
1. When first learning fall breaks, you may want to start by squatting low.
2. Fall backward, leading as much as possible with your upper body and pulling your hips up. Tuck your chin and keep your teeth together. This protects your head and neck, and avoids the risk of biting your tongue.
3. As you reach the ground, strike it hard with your palms at about a 45° angle. Do not lead with your elbows. If they strike the ground, you may seriously damage them.
4. Immediately recoil your hands into a fighting position.
