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Writer's pictureEmmanuel Manolakakis

Movement in Self-defence

Updated: Oct 9



The benefits of movement in self-defence are crucial for effective protection and survival in a threatening situation.


Evasion and Escape

Movement allows you to dodge attacks, reducing the chances of getting hit. By constantly moving, you make it harder for an attacker to land a blow. Moving increases the distance between yourself and the attacker, providing a safer buffer and a better chance to escape.


Positioning

Movement helps you position yourself in a way that gives you the upper hand. For example, moving to the side or behind an attacker can place you in a better spot to defend or counterattack. Movement allows you to use your environment to your advantage, placing barriers between you and the attacker or using objects to defend yourself.


Generating Power

Movement, especially footwork, helps generate power in strikes. For instance, stepping into a punch or kick can significantly increase its force, making your defence more effective. By moving, you can harness momentum to amplify your strikes’ impact or escape more quickly.


Impact

Constant movement can confuse or overwhelm an attacker, making it difficult for them to predict your next move. This unpredictability can give you a psychological edge. Practicing movement in self-defence builds confidence in your ability to react under pressure, making you less likely to freeze in a real situation.


Endurance and Fatigue

Proper movement helps you conserve energy by avoiding unnecessary force or strain. This is essential in situations that may require a prolonged defence. Movement can tire out an attacker, especially if they are forced to chase or repeatedly adjust their position. This can weaken their attacks over time.


Adaptability

Movement allows you to adapt to changing circumstances, such as multiple attackers or different terrains. Being able to change direction or tactics quickly is essential for effective self-defence. Effective movement helps you improvise in unpredictable situations, turning the environment to your advantage or finding new escape routes.


Staying still is often the worst option in self-defence. Movement keeps you engaged, responsive, and in control of the situation, increasing your chances of staying safe.



Man moving in martial arts
Movement in Self-Defence


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