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To me totality is very important in sparring. Many styles claim this totality. They say that they can cope with all types of attacks; that their structures cover all the possible lines and angles, and are capable of retaliation from all angles and lines. If this is true, then how did all the different styles come about? If they are in totality, why do some use only the straight lines, others the round lines, some only kicks, and why do still others who want to be different just flap and flick their hands? To me a system that clings to one small aspect of combat is actually in bondage.

Bruce Lee#166

Martial artsLearningFreedomCombatSystemsLimitation

About this quote

What does it mean?
Claiming totality in fighting systems is contradictory; clinging to one aspect is bondage.
In plain terms
If a system truly covered all angles, styles wouldn't differ; sticking to one style limits you.
What can you take from it?
True totality avoids bonding to one small aspect of combat.

Where it applies

  • training
  • system design
  • learning paths

Putting it to work

  • studying multiple styles
  • avoiding dogma
  • adaptive learning

Questions to consider

  • Are you clinging to one method too tightly?
  • What aspects of your craft are you ignoring?

Another view

Specialization can be more effective than seeking totality in some contexts.

More from Bruce Lee

  1. To me, the function and duty of a quality human is the sincere and honest development of one's potential.

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  2. To me, the extraordinary aspect of martial arts lies in its simplicity. The easy way is also the right way, and martial arts is nothing at all special; the clo…

    Permalink to quote #167
  3. To develop proper distance and penetration against a moving target, use a partner equipped either with a body protector or an air bag. He can either stand stil…

    Permalink to quote #164

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