Strength doesn't matter...or does it?

[J.K.]

I've asked this question to a lot of different Martial Artist and never get the same answer. Most people are quick to say that strength doesn't matter if you use leverage properly, select the right target and so on. I believe strength to be a tremendous attribute.

I've seen instructors claim that strength doesn't matter, but yet they get bullied by a person who is significantly stronger than them. Also, seen people use strength against prevent submission due to their ability to resist and break leverage by using power. Why does strength carry such a bad stigma in martial arts? Yes, a skilled weaker opponent can beat a stronger less skilled opponent, it happens all the time (Royce was know for competing against people double his size and strength).

I realize that use of strength requires more energy and can lead to fatigue if not use properly. I feel as though strength could be used to ones advantage - especially if the person already has good technique. I am a pretty strong for my size and I know that strength has helped me against opponents that are weaker than me with higher skill. I am able to prevent locks, resist takedowns, and control against weaker opponents. Sure, you could say that the reason I am able to resist lock by using strength is because the person's technique was bad to being with. However its a lot easier to lock someone when the are not resisting.

I am an advocator of developing proper technique and learning how to use leverage to defend against bigger and stronger opponents. Its good to develop proper technique, especially when you are first starting. I just feel that strength has gotten a bad rap - If you have it why not use it to your advantage? Your insight is appreciated.

[doubleouch]

I've heard this one alot! Strength and size do matter. They make a tremendous difference. proper technique, leverage, timing etc. are all designed to limit the effectiveness of someones size or strength advantage. If someone is bigger and stronger than you he obviously has an advantage. It is possible to overcome that advantage with skill and training, but I have learned from experience that there are some techniques that will not work on large strong guys no matter how well executed or timed.
I can tell you that anyone who says size doesn't matter has not had enough experience sparring big guys.
I think when people say that size and strength don't matter they really mean that size and strength can be overcome by proper technique and training etc. This is an oversimplification and a half truth at best.

[doubleouch]

I do agree that strength has gotten a bad rap. you do need to develop good technique in case you go up against someone stronger than yourself, but if strength is one of your attributes it would be silly not to use it. I often find in my grappling sparring if I have more experience than my opponent I will try to use as little strength as possible and work on using leverage timing etc. However when I am evenly matched I will use strength if I can.

[J.K.]

I agree with you one hundred percent. When ever doing grappling I always practice smooth technique and try to use as little strength as possible. However in more competitive situations - I find my strength can overwelm my opponent and even tire him out. You made a good point when you said

"I think when people say that size and strength don't matter they really mean that size and strength can be overcome by proper technique and training etc." I think you hit the nail on the head.

Thanks for your response.