Multiple attackers - mainly an aikido point of view.
I recall my highly respected teacher saying, ‘don’t wait– go to them.’
Why would we do that?
Why do so many other teachers wait for the attacker’s approach instead?
I can think of a few things that benefit from the close the gap approach.
1, we can occupy a place that the attacker hoped to take and by doing so disturb their plan, forcing a partial rethink and delay in their reactions.
2, the attacker does not have the opportunity to develop the full force of their attack.
3, it fits with O-Sensei’s advice – ‘I initiate.’
4, it becomes our choice where we go. We can choose the attacker, which side to favour and to some extent plan our sequence of defence by putting a body between us and the next attacker.
5, it becomes a positive experience for us – taking control.
I write this in relationship to the art of aikido and not as a self-defence proposition although it does still have its merits.
But what do you think?
I recall my highly respected teacher saying, ‘don’t wait– go to them.’
Why would we do that?
Why do so many other teachers wait for the attacker’s approach instead?
I can think of a few things that benefit from the close the gap approach.
1, we can occupy a place that the attacker hoped to take and by doing so disturb their plan, forcing a partial rethink and delay in their reactions.
2, the attacker does not have the opportunity to develop the full force of their attack.
3, it fits with O-Sensei’s advice – ‘I initiate.’
4, it becomes our choice where we go. We can choose the attacker, which side to favour and to some extent plan our sequence of defence by putting a body between us and the next attacker.
5, it becomes a positive experience for us – taking control.
I write this in relationship to the art of aikido and not as a self-defence proposition although it does still have its merits.
But what do you think?