Fight Like a Physicist

An in-depth look into the physics behind martial arts. Whether you are an experienced martial artist or a curious enthusiast, this book gives you an “unfair advantage” by unraveling the complex science of effective fighting techniques and examining the core principles that make them work. Did you know?


Momentum is for knocking people over

Energy is for breaking bones and causing pain

A haymaker travels 3.14159 times farther than a jab

You are only an “object” when you are rigid




Fight Like a Physicist blends inquiry, skepticism, and irreverent humor—all while punching holes in myth and mysticism. Highlights include


Making physics your “unfair advantage,” in the ring and on the street

Examining center of mass, pi, levers, wedges, angular momentum, and linear momentum for martial artists

Reducing traumatic brain injury in contact sports

Exposing the illusion of safety provided by gloves and helmets

Overturning conventional wisdom on compliance during an assault

Busting up Hollywood action clichés




Fight Like a Physicist reads like a manifesto on the rational practice of martial arts. It’s intelligent, fun, and dangerous—and nothing short of iconoclastic.