hi tim,

i've been thinking about this for a long time but haven't found any satisfactory answer. we all know that there is one way to react in every situation, and most martial arts provide us with limitless options. my question is how do you train those different responses without confusing the body or mind?

i'll give an example: if someone throws a straight punch, you can either parry inwards or outwards. most schools will teach both ways. however, some studies have shown that doing it in this manner will confuse the person when the time comes to use it because he will have trained two different methods of dealing with the same situation.

now, i personally think that you can train different responses to the same situation, my question is how do you train different responses without confusing yourself when the time comes? i've been racking my brains to find a training method, but haven't come up with anything.

Spar regularly. And you'll limit confusion.
(I should follow my own advice)

so you're saying train all the possible reactions to a straight punch, and with regular sparring, the best method for that particular straight punch will come out?

That's pretty much what I'm saying. In class you should practice whatever your teacher is teaching you in any particular class.

After class, spar with your friends. Agree to 'medium/light' speed and contact and you'll be able to pick and choose the reactions to 'slower' punches coming in. When you turn up the sparring to hard/fast- you'll probably tend to use only a few of your favorite reactions/counters.

If your teacher is observing- they should be able to make suggestions to help you (and your partner) improve.

A good teacher can teach you 20 ways to muliply 10X30 but it's up to you to figure our the 1 or 2 ways that is most benificial to your needs. (unless you want to teach, in which case, you need to master all 20 ways.... which means.... solid notes and a lot more sparring).

cheers shane, appreciate the info

Twenty ways to defend! I don't think I can handle that, five is my max.