[2 min read]

👋 Hey Warrior,

We know that most fights start with a haymaker.

That wild, predictable punch is easy to spot, but what happens when your next move is just as obvious?

Being readable in a fight is a critical vulnerability, leaving you open to being countered and controlled.

Ready to flip the script?

This week, we're diving into something crucial for making your martial art effective when it counts… unpredictability.

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If an attacker can guess your next move, they have a huge advantage.

Let's explore why breaking predictable patterns is key.

Why Unpredictability Matters in Self-Defense

So, what exactly is unpredictability in a fight? Simply put, it’s doing what the attacker doesn't expect.

Think about your training…

…you practice stances, footwork, blocks, and strikes. You drill combinations. This builds muscle memory, which is great!

But it can also build predictable patterns.

Maybe you always step back with the same foot first. Maybe you always follow a low block with the same counter.  

In the controlled environment of the dojo or gym, these patterns help you learn.

But on the street, against someone who doesn't play by the rules, those same patterns can be liabilities.

If you always react the same way, you become easy to read.

An attacker can anticipate your defense or counter-attack, potentially bypassing it entirely.  

The goal isn't to throw away your training!

It's about understanding the difference between training drills and real-world application.

Your techniques are your tools, but relying on the exact same sequence every time makes you fragile.

Real conflict is messy and chaotic.

Being unpredictable means you can adapt, respond effectively to surprises, and keep an attacker off balance.

It helps you bridge that gap between the practice floor and genuine self-protection.  

Start thinking…

What are your go-to moves?

Do you always favor one side?

Do you have standard reactions you default to under pressure?

Recognizing these habits is the first step.

Final Thoughts

Your martial art gives you a fantastic foundation.

But true effectiveness comes when you can apply those skills flexibly, breaking free from rigid patterns.

Start noticing your own habits – awareness is the first step towards becoming less predictable.

Stay Unpredictable,

Paul Simoes

P.S. Tomorrow, we'll start looking at how you can begin to introduce unpredictability into your training and mindset. Stay tuned!

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