Move away and get closer to your opponent at the same time. How can that possibly be right? Not only is it right, it is easy to do once you understand the angles involved. That is what this video lesson is about.

It is useful for sport, and most importantly for self-defence. This one is for anyone who tends to back straight up under pressure, or who struggles to get into range without walking onto a shot.

The Problem With Straight Lines

When someone comes at you, the natural reaction is to step straight back. The trouble is that the attacker is moving forward faster than you can move backwards. Sooner or later you run out of room, and you are still right in front of them.

Stepping straight in has its own problem. You walk directly into whatever they are throwing.

How Angles Change Everything

Move off the line instead. When you step at an angle, you leave the path of the attack, so in that sense you are moving away from the danger. But because of the angle, you can end up closer to the attacker's side, where they are weak and cannot easily hit you.

So you have moved away from their weapons and closer to their body at the same time. That is the whole idea, and it is not a trick, it is just geometry.

From that position:

  • Their strongest strikes are pointing the wrong way
  • Their balance is easier to take
  • Your own strikes have clear targets
  • You have a better route to escape

How To Practise It

Start slowly with a partner:

  • Have your partner walk forward towards you with a slow, controlled attack
  • Step off the line at an angle, rather than straight back
  • Notice where you end up and what targets are now available
  • Add a simple follow-up such as a balance break or a light strike
  • Gradually increase speed as the movement becomes natural

Keep your feet under you as you move. Big, lunging steps leave you off balance. Small, sharp steps are better.

Common Mistakes

The most common mistake is stepping too far, so you end up out of range and gain nothing. The second is moving only the feet and leaving the head on the line. Move the whole body off it.

Take It Further

For angles, balance and targets in one system, see the Pressure Point Self Defense Course. Boxers can find the same footwork ideas in the Learn To Box Online Course.