Originally Posted by
sihing
Intersting post.
I agree with the idea of "cutting" lines from the outside. I've personally found that when one "cuts the line" while going forward the slight angle you describe above is already gained, it's a really tight angle. The thing about moving sideways first, then in, is that it is two actions, not one. In this case it would would be just better to strike from that sideways angle and not try to go in and hit then, as your hit is now behind in timing, you would have to have a great speed advantage vs your opponent to pull this off, trying to get two actions in before a strike is thrown. But if you throw the cutting strike as you coming in, it's all in one action. This is only achieved when the structure is developed and the mechanics are right, as the angle is already gain from your facing and stepping in practice. Also with the side stepping (and I found this happening allot in my TWC days), your angle is really severe, lessen the striking target as you are now right a the side of the guy, with maybe the ribs as a targets or side of the head, it's easier for them to cover up from that severe an angle IMO. Gary Lam would say this angle is more used for hiding, or closing (setting up standing grappling), rather than a striking angle.
As for your comment about being stronger than your opponent, well someone can physically be stronger than you (=he can lift more weight than you in a weight room), but that doesn't always translate to a fighting situation. If he's using his shoulders to support his punch, that is weak, as compared to someone that is using a connected structure, with power from the legs coming into it. Most people cannot bench press or military press as much as they can squat, learn to use that support and power and you have fighting strength in a small package.
James
P.S. Not saying side stepping is out of the question, as of course you may need to do just this, but as JP said you don't do it just to do it, one has to feel the need to do it when necessary.
Generally in WSL line, the Toi ma or pushed step back is done at a tight angle, it's back and slightly sideways, not a straight side step, keeping the angle tight, and the striking targets(torso) in range.