In all of the techniques I was taught the first thing you do is strike* - then apply the technique
* As the chief instructor - the late, great Tom Moss - said 'Just to get their attention'.
(Captain Placid Good at something, not doing it for free, Mon 4 Feb 2013, 22:18, Reply)

Attention? Or a distraction!
Nothing takes the mind off what you're doing to their arms more than a squishy nose.
( Draconacticus Joystick waggler extraordinaire, Mon 4 Feb 2013, 22:52, Reply)