Darryl send me the link to this article by Sylvie von Duuglas-Ittu – Why “Move B” Counters “Move A” Isn’t the Answer. In essence, even if a technique works most of the time, it is not totally fool prove. Furthermore, the environment and situation can change on you unknowingly, in this case, her partner got stronger and more powerful over time.

Some related ideas:

  1. You cannot defend what you cannot see / feel.
  2. You cannot defend what you don’t understand or appreciate. Therefore, broaden your body movement / interaction vocabulary.
  3. Every technique has its set of physics and principles behind it. With every technique are specific parameters and assumptions. Some techniques works under very specific scenarios but some are more adaptable to a great variety of circumstances (e.g. height, weight, power, etc).
  4. Some technique are never used to finished a fight but great lead-ins. Some techniques are great finishers but never try to use it when you are still figuring out the gaps between you and your opponent.
  5. Street is different from sport in that you don’t have weight divisions. You have to make do with what is dished out to you. Techniques that are too scenario specific tend to get you into trouble.
  6. Understand why the technique works. Most techniques are simply implementation of several simple concepts. You can modify or adapt easier if you understand.
  7. You will not be able to solve all attacks. A necessary approach may be to bypass it totally by managing distance, angles, levels, anticipate better, have stopping power and/or ask the question first.
  8. Changing up partners allow you to train on the necessary adaptive techniques.
  9. Rather than just training specific moves and hits, it is even more important to develop your problem solving skills, ability to adapt, ability to read and anticipate.
  10. You cannot defend against everything. So be prepared mentally and physically.

Exercise
The numbered list does not represent priority but rather make it easier for references during discussion. Did the article resonate with you in any way or it spark some other relevant thoughts. Discuss.

Counter-strike and defence