[2 min read]

👋 Hey Warrior,

Ever see a smaller guy win a fight?

Me either…

JK. We’ve all seen it.

Where the smaller guy, who looked outmatched…

…somehow came out on top.

Always leaves me scratching my head, thinking, "How'd that happen?"

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I saw it unfold years ago, working the doors.

It wasn't a bar brawl, but a situation outside – two guys, one clearly bigger, angrier.

The tension was thick.

The bigger dude shoved, expecting the smaller guy to fold.

He didn't.

Instead, the smaller man exploded with surprising power…

…and a burst of unexpected strength to put the aggressor on the ground.

It wasn't just technique; raw, functional strength played a starring role.

The Pain You Don't Want to Feel

Facing someone bigger, stronger, or just plain mean is intimidating.

The feeling of being physically overwhelmed? It sucks.

It’s that knot in your stomach telling you you're at a disadvantage, that your skills might not be enough.

Ignoring the strength factor because "technique conquers all" feels good...

…until it doesn't.

Sometimes you need that extra horsepower to break a grip, create space, or land a decisive blow.

And not having it is a vulnerability you can't afford.

Strength… The Unsung Hero

The strength I saw wasn't developed with just bench presses or bicep curls.

That type of functional strength – the kind that translates directly into a fight, is a powerful asset to have.

Here's the lesson learned that night:

1. It Amplifies Technique: Perfect technique with zero power behind it is like a perfectly designed race car with no engine. Strength gives your skills impact.

2. It Buys You Time: Being strong enough to resist a takedown attempt or shove someone off gives you critical seconds to think, move, or escape.

3. It Boosts Confidence: Knowing you have the physical power to back up your skills changes your mindset. It radiates confidence, which can deter potential attackers.

Strength isn't everything, but denying its advantage is leaving a powerful weapon untapped.

Mindset Check… What's Your Strength Story?

Think about it.

Has there ever been a time (in training or life) where a little extra strength would have made a critical difference?

Maybe you couldn't quite break that grip, or you felt easily overpowered.

Reflect on that – acknowledging the need is the first step to building it.

Don't Just Train Hard, Train Strong

That night watching the smaller guy dominate reinforced why functional strength is a core pillar in my own training and what I teach.

It's not about vanity muscles… it's about building a resilient, capable body ready for anything.

Final Thoughts

That smaller guy won because he brought more than just skill to the fight…

…he brought unexpected strength.

Remember, Warrior, being strong isn't just about lifting heavy things.

It's about having the power to protect yourself and control the situation.

It's an advantage you need.

Stay Strong,

Paul Simoes

P.S. Tomorrow, we open the floor! I want to hear from YOU. What's your go-to strength workout or exercise that makes you feel more capable in a self-defense scenario? Hit reply or join the community discussion!

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