the best defense?

What is the best method of defense? We all know the old cliché 'the best defense is offense' but is that really accurate? It's true that aggression is one of the most important tools you need for combat, however, is aggression all you need for wining a fight?

Using only aggression may work on a weaker and less experienced opponent than you, but if that's the case, you'll win the fight anyway.

If all you are is aggressive with nothing really to back it up against an experienced fighter, he will eventually counter you with his own attack. He won't be too concerned about your aggression, because an experienced fighter will be aggressive as well. There's a very important rule of fighting all people should understand; anytime you throw a strike, there's a chance being countered by the person fighting you. Especially an experienced opponent.

Of course, defense only, without any attack back will be even worse, because the line of defense will eventually get breached. You can't win fight with defense only.

So what is the best way to defend? I believe in a combination between the two. Aggressive defense. Combining defense with aggression.

For our purpose defense means this; how to prevent a strike from landing, and how to beat your opponent to every single punch, through correct work of counter striking.

If you're able to prevent your opponent from landing effective strikes, and you beat him to the punch, then of course you'll also be aggressive, and also have great defense, and win the fight.

Train smart, stay safe,

Sharir R,

ICCS Head instructor.