Fightclub – in close

Event Date

Jan 19, 2018


It was a cold one out there this morning, but it didn't keep all of us safe in the warmth of our beds. Cheif was actually waiting for YHC and we started right away to keep from freezing.  Shambala arrived right on time and joined in on the fun.  Today, we worked on inside fighting and what to do when either you are grabbed or you had to grab the attackers arms.  Very often, once the arms get grabbed, it turns into a power struggle,,, we dont want that.  We need to remember that the focus should not be limited to the hand or arm that attached itself to us,, but to vulnerabilities created by him not having a free hand to defend or attack.  We dont need to free ourselves from the grasp to deliver effective strikes.  A simple step in and elbow over the top will land squarely on the attackers jaw or collarbone.  Once the initial strike is given, his hand will release , allowing us to continue the assault using elbows to the ribs and face.  Balance and positioning of the legs and feet become important since we do not want to create a liability in our defenses that will enable an attacker to move in behind us.  Remember to use a position of advantage to limit the movement of the attacker.  Dont stop with one attack and move through the person, not so much around him.  Using the legs in this manner takes a bit of practice but will greatly increase the effectiveness of your attacks and defenses.  These simple elbow strikes can be used in a defensive (being grabbed) or offensive (you grabbing).  Next we practiced a center line jab with the elbow.  Similar to a punch to the chest but much more effective at this range.  Once again, no need to release the grip, just move through with the rotation and we will find that the elbow strike will hit its target quite easily.  Again, one strike is not enough and we move on through and continue with the techniques until the threat is nuetralized.  The next part is a bit unusual but also very effective.  it works on both the physical level and the psychological level.  We practiced using the finger tip as weapons and directed the force into the throat area.  This strike is very effective and also causes the target some concern,,, not many people use finger tips to hit the throat and the sensation will cause quite a bit of concern and alarm in the target.  Very often a fight can be ended by creating fear and uncertainty in the mind of the attacker.  The last set of drills we practiced follows the main components of this system. We destroy what ever is attacking us and then move in to center line attacks.  So, keeping this in mind,,, we use as lateral strike of the fist directed into the inside aspect of the of the attackers wrist.  This will release the grip and create a fair amount of pain.  Allowing us once again to use strikes,, (elbows or backfists) and move in for center line attacks. 

In close fighting is very important. Very few fights start and end at a distance.  Making a mistake once contact has been made can create a very dangerous situation for us,, so dont make a mistake. 

Fighting should be avoided whenever possible,,the reasons for the altercation should be weighed against every possible outcome,,,  but if it cant be avoided we must take advantage of every possible situation to ensure our survival and the survival of our loved ones. We may have to do some very 'not nice' things.  If you hesitate,,, then either the reason for the fight is not good enough or you are doubting the outcome,, either will likely produce a bad outcome.

Thank you for allowing me to train with you fine men.