1)Are your hands and arms firm such that they obstruct enemies and their attacks?

You can protect your body by protecting your space. Firm arms are also good for arm wrestling with bears. Be careful though, they always cheat.

2)Is your stance structured in a way, such that your enemy cannot move you easily?

Whoever controls movement, controls the fight. Fun fact: there once was man who didn't move for 6 years. I don't think anyone tried to move him though since he didn't shower.

3)Is your mouth open?

The only good time to open your mouth during a fight is when you suddenly decide to become a cannibal. In that case, don't forget to bring ketchup.

4)Are your teeth clenched?

Clench your teeth unless you want a visit from the tooth fairy.

5)Are you taking "babysteps" either forwards or backwards?

If you don't use your other leg, maybe you should donate them.

6)Are you attacking with only your front hand?

I can always use a hand. It would look cool on my keychain.

7)Are you breathing? Correctly?

The only excuse for not breathing correctly is if you're in space. Or Flushing Bay.

8)Are you allowing your enemy to rest?

Unless your favorite T.V. show is on, don't let your enemy rest. Make him go get you some popcorn.

9)Are you pressuring your opponent?

There are many ways to pressure your opponent. One is to attack. Another is to attack. And last but not least ATTACK! Oh yea, you can also call them funny names. Let me know if that works.

9.5)Are your thumbs tucked in?

You don't want to jam or even break your thumb. The only exception is if you are challenging your enemy to an epic battle of thumbwars. Then you can leave it out.

10)Are you spending time thinking instead of attacking?

Use an "autopilot" move if you don't know what to do, so that you can think, fight and apply pressure. Unless you are thinking of a really good riddle to confuse your enemy with, so that you can do a sneak attack from behind, then its OK.

10.5) Is your enemy attacking you relentlessly?

Unless you want free facial reconstructive surgery(free things are never that good, if you ask me) and/or you are really ugly, GET OUT OF THERE! Questions? Suggestions? Comments? Praise? Insults? Email me: owuttitsin@tmail.com Questions? Suggestions? Comments? Praise? Insults? Email me: owuttitsin@tmail.com

By Assistant Instructor Jin Ooi