If your dominant hand is your right hand, your left shoulder will be pointing towards your attacker. The opposite applies if your left hand is dominant. The stance should feel natural, and not uncomfortable or forced.
Just make sure not to back yourself up against a wall.
You’ll react much faster if you study this in advance. Try looking at yourself in the mirror, and watch your shoulder as you pull back your arm to fake a punch. You will learn the signs of an incoming punch quicker this way, but know that even a partially successful dodge can turn a brutal blow into a glancing one. [2] X Research source
While the attacker is approaching, it should always be your goal to be ready to predict and dodge the next attack.
To quickly step aside, start by having your body angled with your non-dominant shoulder pointing towards your attacker, and your feet shoulder width apart.
This is most successful against a big, swinging punch. For a big, swinging punch, the attacker’s body weight will shift backwards, and the attacker’s shoulder will rise significantly before advancing. Deflecting a fast, direct punch, where the attacker gives minimal signals other than in the small rise and flex of the shoulder muscles, will take considerable skill. You will be more successful dodging the fast, direct punches than deflecting them. [6] X Research source
Just remember to step aside and turn away from the attacker if possible. You want to be able to take any opportunity to run away from your attacker. [8] X Research source
When doing this, it is best to have your body angled, pointing your non-dominant shoulder to the attacker, and having your feet shoulder width apart. This stance will allow you to evade or advance quickly.
Ideally, you want to aim for the eyes, groin (if the attacker is male), stomach, temples, or the point of the chin.
Just make sure that your arms are pulled inward so that they are flush against the sides of your head. The technique will not be as effective in absorbing the punch otherwise.
Clenching your teeth will keep you from cracking or breaking them. Pushing your tongue to the roof of your mouth will keep you from accidentally biting your tongue. Think of this as an impromptu mouth guard. [12] X Research source
