FIVE SWORDS

1. This technique was originally developed where all five counts were executed as handswords. Because of the undeveloped state of the natural weapons of most beginning students, the weapons were altered with the name unchanged, as Five Swords.
2. THEME: In this technique environment dictates that you cannot move back, nor is it feasible for you to move to the outside of your opponent's right punch. With your choice of action limited, you must learn to move forward and to the inside of his punch. Your timing is of utmost importance. You must time your action so that your block meets his right arm with success while contemplating checking the left arm of your opponent. This action will delay the use of your opponent's left arm and give yourself ample time to strike him.
3. THE ATTACK: The IDEAL PHASE of this technique begins with your opponent located to the front. He steps forward with his right foot as he delivers a right roundhouse punch toward your face. Study these other possible factors:

a. Your opponent throws a right straight punch.

b. Your opponent pushes with his right hand.

c. Your opponent throws a right uppercut punch.

d. Your opponent executes a left straight punch.

e. Your opponent pushes you with his left hand prior to punching with his right.

f. Your opponent precedes his punch with a right kick.

g. Your opponent attacks with a right roundhouse club attack.

h. Your opponent thrusts a knife.

i. The environment allows you to back up on your initial move.
4. Practice Formulating this technique against a right/left punch combination.
5. Do not get in the habit of blinking your eyes when executing your sequence of movements. Avoid this habit and you will be amazed how you can increase your accuracy as well as the effectiveness of your techniques.
6. The habit of blinking should also be avoided when taking the role of the aggressor. You will reach new levels of self-defence training when this habit is eliminated.
7. Your right outward handsword (on the second move) should be executed at such an angle so as to cancel your opponent's Height, Width, and Depth Zones.
8. Vary both weapons and targets when practicing your basic technique sequence. Learn to tailor your weapons to the particular individual who is attacking you. As an example, convert the left horizontal finger thrust (third move) to a heel palm strike.
9. Your ability to buckle your opponent's right leg with your right leg will be one of the determining factors that can delay the use of his left hand.