Collapsing a Fall (Theory and Application)

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Now that we are diving into dynamic kicking games with partners, we should go over the possibility of falling. Though falling is a minor risk, learning how to fall gives practitioners the confidence to kick. The problem isn't the actual likelihood but rather the fear.

First, let's specify terms and concepts. By fall, I mean a free fall where the only downward force is gravity with no other restrictions. If someone else is attached to you or going down with you, that is no longer a fall but a takedown. How one approaches takedowns completely differs from free fall strategies. Therefore, treating falls and takedowns as the same can increase the likelihood of injury and cost you in a match. You generally want to accept falls and resist takedowns. Since they have opposing strategies, you want to treat them differently.

In martial arts, you most often free fall while kicking (which you initiated) or being kicked. The risk comes from exerting force while on one foot.