Identify a common self-defense mistake to avoid.

• A. Overextending or overcommitting, which can compromise balance and create openings.
• B. Keeping elbows tight and stationary at all times.
• C. Moving too slowly to avoid risk.
• D. Defending with the feet while standing still.

Answer: (A)

Maintaining a solid base and controlled range is crucial in self-defense. Overextending or overcommitting means you reach beyond your balance, leaning into a strike or grab in a way that twists your hips and extends your center of gravity past your stable base. When you do this, you become off-balance, your guard can drop, and openings appear for the attacker to counter, grab, push, or sweep you. The moment you commit strongly to an extended move, your ability to react quickly diminishes and you give the other person the initiative.

Right movement keeps you balanced and ready. Use compact, short moves and step to adjust distance, rather than reaching or leaning too far. This preserves your base, makes your defenses more reliable, and lets you create angles to escape or counter effectively. The other approaches described—holding a fixed elbow position, moving too slowly, or defending while standing still—tend to reduce your mobility and leave you more exposed.