Marine Corps Martial Arts Punches - 7/15/2015

Marine Corps Martial Arts Punches - 7/15/2015

Recruits of Charlie Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, practice punching techniques during a Marine Corps Martial Arts Program class at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, July 15. The focus of MCMAP is the personal development of each Marine in a team framework using a standardized, trainable and sustainable close combat fighting system. Training is broken down into segments and on this day the company learned the fundamentals of the lead and rear hand punch as well as the necessary proper footwork. 

Though the recruits are learning the physical maneuvers of MCMAP, they are also given additional training on core values and morals.

Photos by Sgt. Walter D. Marino II

Staff Sgt. Brandon J. Curry, Marine Corps Martial Arts Instructor, demonstrates correct hand placement when striking during a MCMAP class at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, July 15. Recruits receive multiple MCMAP classes throughout recruit training and are given a MCMAP test on training day 50 to verify their knowledge of MCMAP fundamentals.

Staff Sgt. Brandon J. Curry, Marine Corps Martial Arts Instructor, demonstrates correct hand placement when striking during a Marine Corps Martial Arts Program class at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, July 15.

A recruit demonstrates the basic warrior stance from the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program during a MCMAP class at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, July 15. The basic warrior stance is the starting point of every MCMAP move and is instrumental for balance and power. Recruits were taught how to throw the lead and rear hand punch as well as the footwork and body position needed to execute the punches effectively.

Staff Sgt. Brandon J. Curry, Marine Corps Martial Arts Instructor, demonstrates the basic warrior stance during a MCMAP class at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, July 15. The basic warrior stance is the starting point of every MCMAP and is instrumental for balance and power.

Staff Sgt. Brandon J. Curry, Marine Corps Martial Arts Instructor, demonstrates correct feet and hand placement when in the basic warrior stance during a MCMAP class at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, July 15. 

There are five belt levels in Marine Corps Martial Arts from tan, gray, green, brown and black. Each belt builds on the skills developed under the previous belt and the Marine Corps values learned. Learning the basics of MCMAP is a graduation requirement for all recruits. Once Marines, these recruits will have the opportunity to build upon the basics learned in recruit training.