More Technique Information

Points of Attack

• Balance. Without balance, power generation and movement are difficult or impossible. When an opponent's center is moved so that it is no longer directly over the support foundation (stance) balance is lost. Balance may be attacked in a variety of ways. The foundation may be attacked by locking, nudging, sweeping, kicking, or kneeing. Balance may also be attacked by manipulating the extremities (usually arms) or torso. Since the head is critical to balance, it may be manipulated to disrupt balance.
• Torso. The torso contains many vital striking points and it contains the center of balance. Attacking the center disrupts balance. Vital areas may be attacked by strikes or pressing and the same points may be used to disrupt balance. Downward pressure applied to the torso "grounds" it, making it difficult for the opponent to move.
• Extremities. Extremities may be struck, locked, twisted, and fractured. Extremities are normally the first targets that come within range in a fight and are usually poorly protected, because many people do not view them as potential targets. Attacking the extremities allows you to shorten the range so you may attack the torso without being struck, or if you are struck, to weaken the blow.

Guard

Techniques are executed from the guard position. It is a defensive posture where the hands are held up in front of the body to protect against attacks. Hold the lead hand a little higher than the trailing hand. Hold the lead fist high, but where you can still see the opponent’s feet over the fist. Hold the elbows close to the body so they may block attacks.