A lot of people take medications on a regular basis. Some doctors take the approach of “why change if it works” and so people may stay on the same medication for 20 or 30 years. Changes for the sake of changing is not often wise. Some changes may even cause an unexpected allergic reaction. So why change?
In martial arts, a very familiar question is why do we need to learn so many different skills? If one technique works, shouldn’t we just stick to it?
Combat sport is confined to a relatively stable environment. There are also rules designed to protect the athletes which in turn reduces the variables. For example, in boxing, you do not need to worry about kicks because you are not allowed to kick / knee. In MMA, kick to the head while you are down is illegal but on the street, you have to take that into consideration. In judo, everyone wears a gi and you can yank it for leverage. On the street, nothing can be taken for granted and therefore you have to be super adaptable to what is available.
Variation or variety can also make it more difficult for your opponent to guess what is coming. Like Sun Tzu said ““mystify, mislead, and surprise the enemy” can give you an enormous advantage.
In real life, the environment and opponent(s) varies. For example, try punching and kicking in a swimming pool, with the resistance of water, you will find that some punches and kicks simply doesn’t deliver the same effectiveness and potentially render useless. Winter jackets and/or slippery surfaces throw a wrench to both your attack and defense strategies. Styles that requires a lot of open space will have problems adjusting in narrow alleys or in the elevator.
Yes, finding of and accumulation of resources takes time and so it is best to do it while time is not a constraint. Being exposed (not necessarily being an expert) to different situations will give you an edge to adapt as is required. Curiosity to explore and learn should be a life long quest.
Exercise
We do want to stay with a minimal set of tools, otherwise finding the right tool for the right situation simply take too much time.
1. How do we “simplify” our toolbox while recognizing the need for diversity?
2. How do you systematically create effective variations.
3. What do you have to know/learn about each skill?