Which strike is designed primarily to stop a subject's forward momentum?

The palm heel strike is specifically designed to interrupt or stop a subject's forward momentum effectively. This technique uses the base of the palm to deliver a powerful and targeted strike to the opponent's facial area or chest, which can destabilize them and halt their movement towards the person delivering the strike.

This approach minimizes the risk of injury to the striker's hand, as it relies on a solid, broad surface area rather than the more fragile bones of the fingers. It allows for a quick application of force, making it an ideal choice in situations where an immediate response is needed to prevent an advancing threat.

In comparison, while elbow strikes and fist punches can also be effective in close quarters, they are primarily used for delivering damage rather than specifically stopping forward momentum. A side kick, although powerful, tends to be more about pushing the opponent away rather than halting their progress directly. The palm heel strike, therefore, stands out as the most suitable option for stopping forward momentum.