solitas

DaVinci, Rembrandt, Picasso, Jax.. Actually that "picture" helped a lot. I agree and I think some others may have said that the push can probably be considered an attack worthy of a retalitory strike. I was somehow thinking that a fast and efficient deflection might make the guy think twice before continuing his agression. But I guess if it didn't, it's time to go to town (or run).

As the original poster, I appreciate the great responses. Obviously there are a variety of responses to each attack, and to me as a beginner I think this particular quote about not trying to build a "if he does this, do this" list is pretty good advice. It goes in line with the overall idea of building confidence in yourself so if/when the time comes to use your skills the response comes naturally, not robotic. I've only been in karate for 10 weeks and am pretty much infatuated with it. I was dedicated but bored in the gym, dedicated but bored running up and down the street - and now, dedicated but never bored in the dojo. Thanks guys

I am curious what would be the best defense against a "push". By this I mean the jerk who for whatever reason wants to get in your face, and without actually punching you, he does the two hand push, perhaps to your upper chest. Example : He pushes you you step back, "I don't want to fight..." He steps forward, pushes again.. You step back, "I don't want to fight"... You are now close to having your back against the wall. Assuming you can't get away (a big assumption I agree), and it looks like you need to do something against the third push you are quite likely to get. Yes I understand and agree that a fast exit is the best alternative, and the one I would pursue. My question though is more along the lines of a move to deflect the push, perhaps (?) without striking him, that might make him reconsider doing a fourth push.