Self-defense doesn’t start with punches or kicks…


Sep 4, 2025

 by David Siscoe
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🥋 Grandmaster’s Tip: "Control the Space with Your Hands – The Fence"

Self-defense doesn’t start with punches or kicks… it starts with POSITION.
Before the fight. Before the threat. Control the space.

📌 The Concept: “The Fence” – Your Invisible Forcefield

Imagine this scenario:

You're standing and someone aggressive is walking toward you, yelling, posturing, maybe about to swing.

What most untrained people do:

  • Back up.

  • Flinch.

  • Put their hands down by their sides.

  • Or worse… shove with anger (which escalates).

What we do in T.U.F.F. (The Ultimate in Fitness Fighting):
We use The Fence.

✋ Step-by-Step: How to Use The Fence

  1. Hands Up – Naturally

    • Raise your hands as if you were saying, “Whoa, calm down,” or “Hey, I don’t want any trouble.”

    • Elbows close to your body, hands between your face and theirs, fingers spread.

  2. Palms Out – Not Clenched Fists

    • This tells them and any witnesses: You’re not the aggressor.

    • But your hands are in the perfect position to defend or strike if needed.

  3. Take a Step Back – Staggered Stance

    • One foot slightly behind the other (like a boxer’s stance but subtle).

    • This gives you better balance, and if needed, power.

  4. Verbal + Visual Command

    • Say firmly: “Back up.”

    • Your voice + your body language communicates confidence and control.

  5. Be Ready – Stay Loose, Not Frozen

    • You can parry, push, or strike from this position instantly if attacked.

🖼️ Visual Example

Here’s a simple illustration to make it clear:

 
Hands up, palms out – Non-aggressive, but ready.

🧠 Why It Works (Even If You’ve Never Fought Before):

✅ Psychological Advantage – You don’t look afraid, and your calm presence can de-escalate.
✅ Physical Readiness – Your hands are already in the fight zone if things escalate.
✅ Legal Protection – You’ll look like the one who tried to avoid the conflict.
✅ Control the Gap – It creates space and gives you time to react.

🧨 Grandmaster Wisdom:

“The fight doesn’t start when they swing — it starts when they step too close.
If you can control the space, you control the outcome.”