The Stance.

[Nick]

In the Tao of Jeet Kune Do Bruce has two stances. One with the front hand as a fist and held up, the other (primary stance) with it covering the side, and hanging down. Which is more practical? The one with your arm down covers more, but I find it more difficult to parry with my back hand. Should I work on parrying with my back hand or what?

Later...

[ryanhall]

Both hands up is more practical. Never drop your hands if you care about protecting your face. You can parry with either hand. Keep in mind that the Tao was not a technique book.

[swan104]

Originally posted by Nick
In the Tao of Jeet Kune Do Bruce has two stances. One with the front hand as a fist and held up, the other (primary stance) with it covering the side, and hanging down. Which is more practical? The one with your arm down covers more, but I find it more difficult to parry with my back hand. Should I work on parrying with my back hand or what?

Later...

Ryanhall is right...the Tao of JKD is not solely a technique book. The important thing is dynamism and aliveness. Your lead hand can shuffle between different positions when you are sparring (similar to how a boxers hands never stay still, but is always conscious of their guard).

The economy is motion comes into play when for example, your lead hand does drift down, covering your side. If your opponent throws a jab in for example, you could counter with a rear hand parry with a backfist. Just one of many, many examples...

One of the main principles of JKD is finding the most direct route to the intended target.

Parrying with your backhand will come with training, and time.