A Starting Point

Today in class we drilled three footwork patterns.

• Step straight in
• Switch step and step straight in
• Step in at a 45 degree angle

It is by no means an exhaustive survey of all the footwork options out there. It is, however, a nice place to start. Most folks, when they first spar, do nothing but step straight in (although, to be fair, some people do nothing except stand still or step backwards). Thus the addition of two other basic options – switch step and angle – is a great way to open the door of possibilities.
Those possibilities make you a less predictable fighter. Being a less predictable fighter makes you more fun to fight. Being more fun to fight makes you a better partner which forces your partners to adapt and improve.
Move different. Adapt.