This basic notion permeates my fighting style as well as every individual technique I use and teach. Because its relevance is so broad, however, it has proven to be a difficult concept for me to articulate in writing.

My objective in every fight is simple- to defeat my opponent as quickly and decisively as possible, while incurring the least possible amount of damage to myself.

This involves integrating my offense and defense- using offensive techniques that don't leave me exposed or vulnerable to my opponent's simultaneous or counter attacks. Straight punches originate and end at cheek level, out and back on a line so that the shoulder directly involved in the punch protects one side of the face, while the opposite hand protects the other side.

Or, when I throw a left hook my right hand pulls back hard to cover the right side of my face. This not only adds snap to my punch, it also protects me from my opponent's left hook, which is the most common threat in that situation. By using offensive techniques that are defensively sound, you can attack with aggressive confidence, unafraid of taking punishment when you engage.If you lack confidence in your defense you'll generally adopt one of two fighting modes: