Improving Reaction Time

There are several formulas you can use to hone your reaction timing.

1. Attack when the opponent is preparing his attack. His mind is occupied with what to do next and he is not
fully prepared to attack or defend.


2. Attack when the opponent steps forward or backward. The key is to attack before his stepping foot
touches the ground. While one foot is in the air, the balance of the body is easily upset, but once the step is
completed, an attack is imminent.


3. Attack when the opponent’s attack is at its maximum height. He is unable to retreat quickly and his
balance is extremely vulnerable when his body is fully extended.


4. Attack when the opponent hesitates or is nervous. His indecision is your cue that he has mentally let down
his guard and is vulnerable to attack.


5. Attack just after your opponent completes an attacking movement. Every muscle needs a brief period
of recovery between exertions. Take advantage of this by attacking as soon as the movement is finished.

Timing in the Fighting Arts

Timing is the ability to control the speed of your attack so it reaches its maximum efficiency at the proper moment. Timing is a combination of speed, accuracy and reflexes. To achieve proper timing, you must synchronize the various parts of your body to fit the speed of the movement being executed.

There are two types of timing: action timing and reaction timing. Action timing means selecting the right action at the right time. Simply put, find an opening and take advantage of it. Action timing is used for initiative attacks
against a neutral or defensive opponent.

Reaction timing is assessing your opponent’s offensive movements and selecting a proper response. It is commonly used in counterattacking. Reaction timing is always in response to an attack by the opponent and is more difficult to establish than action timing.

Both types of timing require good perception and judgment, accurate muscular response and correct performance of the intended movement. The body and brain must be synchronized to assess the current situation, select a proper response and execute the response in the time allowed.

Fighting Instinct

Instinct is an intangible quality that gives you the edge in decision making. Instinct is the sum of information collected by your senses that is not rapidly obvious to your conscious mind. It often produces a “feeling” that something is wrong or right without a logical explanation. When you are uncertain what to do next or how to handle an opponent, rely on your gut feelings. The more experience you have in combat, the more reliable your instincts will be.

Components of Combat Skills

The outcome of any physical confrontation is determined by several interconnected factors. The most important and controllable factors are those qualities that make up your combat skills:

1. Ability
2. Instinct
3. Strategy
4. Determination
5. Physical condition
6. Efficiency
7. Adaptability
8. Experience

Each of these elements can be cultivated through consistent and effective training.