Difference between revisions of "Twisting"

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''Twisting''' is the simple way of avoiding a linear technique, in a way which often coaxes the opponent to over-extend themselves.  Since straight [[Punches|punches]] and [[Kicks|kicks]] have a small cross-sectional area, they only require a small body displacement (~4” or ~10 cm) to avoid. Additionally the twist’s hip rotation can augment the power of your [[Blocks|blocks]] (especially [[Ude uke|ude uke]]) or counterattacks (especially [[Uppercut|uppercuts]], and [[Elbow breaks|elbow breaks]]).
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'''Twisting''' is the simple way of avoiding a linear technique, in a way which often coaxes the opponent to over-extend themselves.  Since straight [[Punches|punches]] and [[Kicks|kicks]] have a small cross-sectional area, they only require a small body displacement (~4” or ~10 cm) to avoid. Additionally the twist’s hip rotation can augment the power of your [[Blocks|blocks]] (especially [[Ude uke|ude uke]]) or counterattacks (especially [[Uppercut|uppercuts]], and [[Elbow breaks|elbow breaks]]).
  
 
From a [[Ready stance|ready stance]] facing #1, lower and turn your [[Center|center]] 90° to either side, until you are in a [[Cat stance|cat stance]] facing either #3 or #7. The motion is exactly spinning on a barstool, and your head and chest will turn just far enough for the opponent’s technique to miss.  
 
From a [[Ready stance|ready stance]] facing #1, lower and turn your [[Center|center]] 90° to either side, until you are in a [[Cat stance|cat stance]] facing either #3 or #7. The motion is exactly spinning on a barstool, and your head and chest will turn just far enough for the opponent’s technique to miss.  

Revision as of 08:00, 6 February 2020

Twisting is the simple way of avoiding a linear technique, in a way which often coaxes the opponent to over-extend themselves. Since straight punches and kicks have a small cross-sectional area, they only require a small body displacement (~4” or ~10 cm) to avoid. Additionally the twist’s hip rotation can augment the power of your blocks (especially ude uke) or counterattacks (especially uppercuts, and elbow breaks).

From a ready stance facing #1, lower and turn your center 90° to either side, until you are in a cat stance facing either #3 or #7. The motion is exactly spinning on a barstool, and your head and chest will turn just far enough for the opponent’s technique to miss.

[video of twists, back and forth, fast and slow, from the front and the side. ]

Twisting is usually reserved for intermediate students, because timing is critical. If you twist too early, the opponent can adjust their technique mid-flight and still hit you. If you twist too late, you won’t be complete the twist in time to evade.