"8 Principles of Distance in Attack" by Bruce Lee.

Paraphrased by Spencer Bolejack at Land of the Sky Martial Arts.

The following information should be in all Green Belt notebooks.

1.) Use the longest to get to the closest. Begin this study by listing out all available body weapons in order of both potential distance covered and speed of initiation. Study this and learn combinations which effectively employ this order. Then list out available targets in order of range; closest first. From here it is clear what is meant by 'longest to the shortest'. It could also be said, 'fastest to the slowest'. Train finger jabs and speedy side kicks/round kicks.

2.) Economical Initiation. This is the engagement of a body weapon without telegraphing ones intention or 'moves'. Practice by standing in front of a mirror and repeating techniques over and over until there is no display of muscle movement before the technique has covered some ground. Next practice with a partner various games which develop speed without precursory movement. Watch especially the rear leg, withdrawing of the lead hand before striking, and the shoulders. Also watch the mind as it often builds of intention before striking out. Remember physical attack is simply the manifestation of intent. Hide the intent as well.

3.) Correct On Guard Position. If you are too low (Horse Stance), or not rooted enough for explosive directional movement (cat stance), then you are holding back your ability to attack in an adjusting rhythm. B. Lee uses the term 'small phasic bent-knee position. I suggest studying your 'fighting stances' to explore which ways of handling your weight allow for quick attacks and which ways put your body movement far behind the speed of your appendage. It is difficult to match the body to the body weapon at first. Watch the weight on the front leg.

4.) Constant Shifting of Footwork. This is done ONLY to secure correct measure and NOT for fun. Nothing is worse than seeing some poor fellow hopping around for no reason at all, constantly off balance, un rooted, and getting killed. Thought must be put into one's movement so as to achieve a rhythm, and then break it, luring in one's opponent while staying out of reach during his moments of strength (balance). We practice this by having a partner hold the target pads, moving until a count is heard, attacking, and allowing the pad holder to counter with a kick at random or on count. Try to get within punching range while staying out of kicking range.

5.) Catching the opponents moment of weakness does not mean simply moving in when they are off balance. It is also a psychological moment when a shadow crosses their eyes, or hesitation is conveyed. Of course, this can be an important draw so be careful. One of the best times to attack a beginner is at the moment of initiating attack. This is before physical movement has begun but after the mind has committed.

6.) Correct Measure. Often times people shadow box and get into the bad habit of failing to extend their reach, or if they only spar with no contact, without leadership from their teacher, they fail to learn proper measure. This is the adjustment of distance which allows one to not only HIT the opponent, but drive through the opponent with explosive penetration. Timing is important to gain access to this range.

7.) Principle number 7 is all about getting back to base; that is, quick recovery. Don't leave the arm out/extended, or the leg available to counter attack. This principle can also be the application of appropriate combinations and follow ups, one leading to the next. As students of Budo taijutsu we seek to also take the balance not just hit or kick. Use the space without overextending ourselves.

8.) The final principle, and the one hardest to develop, is courage and commitment. This can only be realized through regular training where you feel what it is to be hit, and to hit. Develop confidence through repetition and apply the confidence in free-fighting. This factor, I believe is the one factor that truly separates beginners from intermediate and advanced students. Seizing the moment is more psychological than physical; for beginners they are one and the same. Too many movies, and perhaps being bullied around by big guys. Few things in life or more satisfying than seeing a larger impressive frame drop in front of you because of a well placed side kick, especially if you reached outside of your comfort zone and found some way to overcome this fear of such a huge person who could crush you.

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