Rush attacks is getting into your range quickly. It is the ability to get past your opponents range, and into your own. Knowing range is important, as well as having control of your body to get you to where you need to be safely.
Points of safety
Moving into range quickly can lead to hard shots. Be controlled and calculated. Make sure you get the block, and move their offensive weapon off line before moving in. It is also good to know how to take hard shots as well.
- Avoid Running People Over: In a Rush Attack, you’re not trying to run your opponent into the ground, but rather trying to advance quickly and break through their defenses. Remain in control as you move forward.
- Avoid Flailing: High-intensity moves like a Rush can lead to a loss of control. As you are moving forward, try to remain in control while you approach your opponent.
- Closing Distance Is Risky: Make sure you are properly defending yourself. There is an equally high chance that you could get struck hard or give a hard shot in the maneuver.
General Points
The idea of rush attacks is quite simple, but is deceptive that way. There is a difference from moving quickly into range rather than running or jumping there. It takes practiced footwork, effective blocks, and the correct timing to be able to move into range quickly and stop where you want to be. It forces the use of your blocks, and block attack combinations to get the kill, or the wound you are looking for. It may also be good to learn hinge shots, and draw cuts in case you move in a little too close to your opponent.
- Rush, Don’t Charge: There is a difference between a Rush and Charge. A Rush is a short maneuver with a beginning and end. A Charge is a building of momentum.
- Intentional Footwork: Even at speeds, your stance and footwork should not be compromised. Maintain your strong base as you move in on your opponent with each step.
- Clearing the Blade: You must clear or address your opponent’s blade before you move in. Otherwise, you are just as likely to die as you are to get the kill.
- Closing Distance: The purpose of closing distance is to enter into Close Range to enable your strike. It is not engaging in a tangle or a brawl with your opponent.
- Striking In Close: While in close range with your opponent, it is more difficult to maneuver your sword so strikes become more about pressing the blade’s tip into your opponent than punching with a full strike.
Training Ideas
- Step By Step: Practice taking one step at a time through a Rush. Address the blade, step into range, and strike.
- Get That Sword Out of My Face: Practice with your offhand redirecting your opponent’s blade out and away from you, even while in Close Range.
- Move In Close Fast: Practice timing to exploit any opportunities that present themselves. An effective Rush is an explosive maneuver.
Assessment
- Rush Attacks Safety: Fencer is moving into range effectively without running over the opponent, running or such. Has the feel/awareness as to when to move in a good portion of the time.
- Rush Attacks Basics: Using effective blocks and maneuvers to set up the rush. Using good footwork and remaining balanced when moving in
- Rush Attacks Training: Moving in on different opponents with different weapons to feel how each one varies. A bear pit with discussions and pointers will help this.
