Self defense is not a static activity. Self defense is
dynamic. There is movement. There is an action-reaction relationship. This is
why you should learn how to move, practice moving and, when necessary, move out
of harms way. Stand still and you may very well not win the battle.
Patterns of Movement are taught in all of Monadnock's
certification programs. They are easy- to-learn and execute with practice. You
should begin by standing in front of a mirror so you can closely evaluate how
well you are doing. Then, you should practice with a partner who will assume the
role of attacker to further your confidence. In such drills, your partner should
vary the speed of the attack, as well as the kind of attack (i.e., grabs,
punches, kicks, etc.). This will give you experience and improve your
performance when it really counts the most...in the field.
Don't see Patterns of Movement as only a way to get out of
harms way, but as a way to increase your defensive power. Punching into a
training bag with only your upper body involved in the technique will produce a
result. But, how effective will that punch be in reality when only a very small
percentage of YOU is involved with its execution. However, when you add hip
rotation and body movement to your punch, your effectiveness and efficiency
should markedly improve because you used your ENTIRE BODY, not just your arm and
shoulder. This is the whole point. Use your ENTIRE BODY to protect the whole
YOU. Be more effective and efficient......MOVE.
Finally, THINK of PATTERNS OF MOVEMENT as SURVIVAL DANCING.
