Self-defense combat contexts are usually very fast, furious, chaotic, and violent. We don’t have time to dance around, test out our opponent, use feints, fakes, and blocks that are generally effective in consensual sparring contexts. This drill is a very basic drill designed for beginners to become more comfortable with pre-emptive striking, covering when overwhelmed, and using knees in the clinch. This drill can also be effective in acculturating beginners to being hit and working with partners in close-range scenarios, where most people (even experienced martial artists) are uncomfortable.
