KerwinBenson.com Hidden Gems of Martial Arts

Back and Forth -- Short People Pay Attention

Now, the short readers (isn't it weird that we all seem to be either short or tall, but nobody is of medium height?) will want some guidelines for dealing with a tall person who can deal with short-person tactics.

Let's pick one of the long-reach tactics, to deal with, OK?

As a short person, you have successfully passed those long arms. Your hands are on either side of his long forearms. As you set them on your shoulder, you feel the direction of the force change.

All of a sudden the arms are heading right for your head. More specifically, the monster's hands are heading right for your face and ears.

The direction of the force has shifted.

Now, what?

Next, do you know how to change angles and body orientation? If so, shift into a back stance (all the weight on your rear leg) and allow the long arms to pass by you on the other side. As you hit, trap the arms on your other shoulder.

Another thought would be to strike the arms that are reaching for you. (Very Filipino of me, wouldn't you say?)

And last, but not least, if those arms redirect and you feel the force of a strike toward your head, turn your opposite shoulder toward your attacker's elbow. This puts you in a perfect position for the aikido control and/or the arm bar found in 'Wrist Locks: From Protecting Yourself to Becoming an Expert.'

(Wow -- that was a lot to ponder.)