Counterattacks

Counterattacks against various types of opponents

• Against an opponent that attacks aggressively, use footwork to evade the attack, or face the attack and block it. When evading, immediately counterattack with hand and/or feet before opponent may recover from the charge. A lead leg side kick or a spin side kick is effective in stopping a charging opponent. If the opponent charges quickly, make the kicks fading kicks where you jump backward and upward at a 45 degree angle to give yourself enough room to execute the kicks.
• Against a quick closing opponent, do not back up; instead, move to the sides or at angles, or charge into the attack. If you back up, the opponent will close again, etc. until you are out of bounds. By charging the attack, you may jam the attack or at least take the power out of the attack. A few quick lead side kicks to the midsection will convince quick closers to slow down or think twice before attacking.
• Against opponents who attack quickly and then retreat just as quickly, you should catch them as they move in. Move backward just enough to avoid the attack and then double kick, or rush the opponent before he or she may retreat.
• Against an opponent who attempts to clinch, move backward, kick with rear leg to stop opponent's movement, and then kick with other leg. Use arms and bob and weave to ward off attempts to clinch.