Boxing/Anatomy of a knockout
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Question
I've always wondered about the anatomy of a knockout. What exactly happens to the brain to make that happen, and why is it so apparent in the legs? And why is it under the chin that the most damage occurs? I figure it must be because of the resulting jarring of the brain in a bad angle (brain stem?). I know what does damage and what it looks like, it's the specific anatomical understanding of why it works that way that I'd really love to know.
I *get* that the knockout is a result of the brain bouncing around inside the skull. But why does a punch under the chin do significantly more damage than one to the forehead or side of the head? I assume it's connected somehow to the location of the brain stem, as a blow to the lower back of the head, near the brain stem, is supposed to be the most dangerous location for trauma.
Brian, you practically answered your own question. It's a result of your brain bouncing around inside your head causing trauma. You would have to consult a scientist or physician for technical terms. Try this:
http://www.videosift.com/video/The-Science-of-a-Knock-Out-Punch
hope this helps,
Jackson
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Jack Rose
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I can answer any questions related to boxing and training. I can help anyone prepare for professional or amateur bouts. My trainer/boss of 24 years is in the Golden Gloves Hall of Fame and trained the heavyweight champion of the world. Holyfield, Roy Jones Jr., Bernard Taylor, Billy Bridges, Frankie Randall just to name a few of the boxers who have passed thru the Southerns and/or trained at our gym.
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I have been in the sport of boxing since 1984. I started as a boxer and advanced quickly. I was lucky enough to have some of the best sparring in the country with 3 top ten pros in my very gym. I am fortunate enough to live near one of the better boxing programs in the country. We have cultivated our facility into the largest Amateur Boxing Gym in the country. In the mid 90's I became a trainer for Golden Gloves. I train amateur and pro fighters. I have worked in many corners at USA and Golden Glove tournaments. I have worked corners in pro bouts on HBO and ESPN cards. My friend, boss and coach is the former President of Golden Gloves and I trained under his tutelage.
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