DISCUSSION

How to hold a fist?

• This class is specifically for seniors, with an age range of 55 to just under 90. Some of you already experience arthritis pain, while a few already have deformed hands and fingers. Expecting you to perform knuckle push-ups or strike a bag of stone pebbles may aggravate your condition.
• A punch requires perfect wrist alignment as well as significant wrist strength to prevent sprains. A punching bag is static, allowing you to concentrate, aim, and prepare before striking. In a real fight, however, you may be hitting a moving opponent, often at an angle that is less than ideal. Given these risks, I don’t think it’s worth attempting to hit with your fists—at least not yet.
• Not using a fist does not mean you lack the ability to inflict damage. For example, a forceful push can seriously harm an aggressive senior and may even be fatal. Instead of fists, using the palms and fingers to target soft, vulnerable areas, along with employing elbows and knees, can be just as—if not more—effective when necessary.

Commit to Your Decision

It is crucial to stick to your decision until everything is under control. Hesitation during a fight can cost you dearly.

The “fight or flight” decision should not be taken lightly. You must ask yourself, Where is my red line? Ultimately, your life—or someone else’s—may depend on it. Think through scenarios, consider your options in advance, and avoid regretting your choices later.

Too often, we take forever to make even small decisions, like choosing a movie to watch. This is why planning ahead is essential—it enables you to make quicker decisions when it truly matters. In a street fight, every second counts.

SCENARIO

Aggressive Handshake – To get out from the grip, you relax and work on his thumb, create alignment while applying “fire-hose” from body all the way to your fingertip.

EXERCISE

Pull guard – do NOT pull guard until you are ready for a fight. Once you pull guard, there is no going back. Remember the hints covered by “ABCDE Help” (If you don’t remember, refer back to this chapter of the class notes)

Mobility of legs forward and backward – The ability to move quickly is crucial. The way you move impacts your balance, distance, effort, and level of commitment, all of which can influence the outcome of a situation.