best defense is offense?

Everyone knows the old cliché: "the best defense is a good offense." But it's only half right.

A blind offensive attack invites the very thing you're trying to avoid — a dangerous counter. Because the best time to hit someone is when he's trying to hit you. Every strike you throw opens a line; the opponent who reads it gets there first.

Offense and controlled aggression matter, of course. But the best defense isn't offense — it's aggressive defense: counter-striking, and beating your opponent to the strike he commits to.

Want to improve your fighting? Sure, work your offensive skills. But invest at least as much in your counter-striking.

Train smart, Sharir R, ICCS head instructor