Slow versus Fast

[indestructible]

I understand your analogy of comparing runners but I think with martial arts we have to compare apples to apples, so to speak. Maybe a better comparison would be two opponents of roughly equal, or equal skill. If the skill level is even, then the man with the speed holds the advantage.

[caine]

Being able to do your forms, or defend yourself fast is a virtue, BUT....
You must first know the form inside and out. You must pay close attention to every move in the form and make sure it is done correctly. If you cannot master your form in a slow, and controlled manner first, you will never be able to perform them at a faster pace without missing a movement, or being able to conrtrol what the outcome of the movement will be. My first Sifu knew his forms so well, he could perform them in reverse. That is a virtue. I was taught to use 5 Orders of Learning.

1. Balance
2. Control
3. Power
4. Speed
5. Endurance

If you can apply these 5 Orders of Learning to your forms and techniques, you will become a better martial artist. Please email me with any questions.

[Ben Thompson]

Speed and power are often useless without perfect timing. I'm telling you, without timing all you have to rely on is luck. The one with the better sense of timing would be the victor, no matter who is slow or fast.

[northern:zen:wannabe]

This question is one of those variables; how does the 'slower' fighter fight? If *you* are the slower fighter, than it depends on how you like to fight.

The principles for a smaller/faster fighter to fight a slower/stronger opponent is footwork, avoid and wait for an opening, get in quick, attack and than retreat, waiting for another opening, etc. This is one of many principles.

In my opinion, a slower fighter (assuming he is stronger) should grab whatever of the faster fighter he can. Grab kicks, punches, grapple, trap and choke. If you are much stronger, harder (as opposed to softer) techniques should be easier to imploy, go strength for strength as you will win.

Though if you are just slow .... then train more I guess. Haha :)

[vagabond]

What if I am a wrester and am a little slower a striker. But once I trap the striker, then I will lock him in my iron grip? Something like that. I am not a wrestler, but was pondering about this situation.