[2 min read]

👋 Hey Warrior,

Yesterday, we talked about why being unpredictable is so important in self-defense.

Predictable patterns make you easy to read.

Today, let's touch on how you can start breaking those patterns by…

…messing with rhythm and timing.

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Keeping Them Guessing

Think about a fight or even just a tense standoff.

There's often a kind of rhythm, a back-and-forth flow.

People expect actions and reactions to happen at a certain pace.

If you can disrupt that expected rhythm, you gain an advantage.

How can you do this? 

Here are a few basic ideas:

• Feints (Faking): A feint is simply pretending to do one thing, making your opponent react, and then doing something else. Even a small fake – like twitching your shoulder like you're about to punch – can make someone hesitate or defend the wrong thing. This breaks their timing and creates openings.

• Broken Rhythm: Instead of moving at a steady pace (step-step-strike), try changing it up. Move quickly, then pause unexpectedly. Take two small steps instead of one big one. This inconsistency makes it hard for someone to time your actions. They expect a beat, but you give them silence, or you act before they expect the beat.

• Timing Variations: Don't always react instantly. Sometimes, reacting slightly sooner or later than expected can throw someone off. If they expect you to block immediately but you shift position first, it changes the encounter. Acting when they don't expect it is key.

You don't need complex techniques to use these ideas.

Just being aware of rhythm and timing is a huge first step.

Start noticing the cadence in sparring or even just partner drills.

Think about how a simple pause or a quick feint could change the dynamic.

It's about making your opponent constantly unsure of what you'll do next.

Final Thoughts

Interrupting someone's expectations about your timing and rhythm is a powerful way to gain control and create opportunities.

Even small disruptions can make a big difference.

Stay safe, stay agile, and keep moving…UNEXPECTEDLY, Warrior.

Paul Simoes

P.S. Understanding how to be unpredictable is one thing. Tomorrow, we'll talk about the mindset you need to actually pull it off when it matters

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