Chop; is like a punch in that it uses the same muscles, yet instead of a closed fist you have an open hand that usually comes at an opponent with the side of the hand making contact. This is as effective as a punch and like a punch depending on where you hit, and how strong you come at an opponent it can be painful. An opponent can block this though. In the martial arts chops are used more often than fists and use more effectively than in some other fight styles.