Juany118
Senior Master
@KPM-- Many pages back, when we were discussing the most efficient position for the wu sau, I explained the rationale for the centerline wu-sau, namely that it was best positioned to protect in either direction simply by driving forward (if man sau was displaced). LFJ pointed out weaknesses with this ...which I basically agreed with, but if you are momentarily stuck with fighting with one hand, you are by definition compromised. driving the wu forward into a punch, biu-sau, etc. is about as good an option as any.
Of course there are other effective responses (besides just punching) depending on the angle and force of your opponent's attack. For example, a rebounding indoor pak-sau bouncing forward iinto a fak-sau against a wide-of-center punch, and so on. There are so many possibilities ...that is not really my concern. In fact the biggest hole in the traditional guard with man and wu stuck directly on center is not the straight line attack, but hooks and looping punches that angle in from the outside. LFJ said as much many pages back --but naturally stayed mum regarding a solution. No surprise there.
Anyway, over the years I've experimented with a wider-set guard derived from my FMA experience that puts my hands, or at least my bridges, about half way between center and side to basically split the difference. This way, my hands have about the same distance to travel to cover center as to cover the side. I've found that I can still use this effectively to wedge and deflect straight-on punches by simply driving forward and counterpunching, as well as delivering a pak, etc. when required. And, I'm also in a better position to address a looping or hooking shot from the outside.
I've also been looking closely at some of the stuff Alan Orr's doing. Not unlike some of what my DTE friends do. Any opinions or suggestions?
Your mention of FMA reminded me of one of the first conversations we had where I noted that I feel my FMA has informed my WC. As an example, in addressing the round punch based on experience I don't trust a counter strike. Using footwork and transitioning to a tan and/or bong also raises concerns. Answer (and I find arm placement from the man/wu we use doesn't matter much) a simple cover if it's to the head/face (which is where hook punch usually are aimed.). It also as the advantage, imo at least, of feeding off a natural flinch reflex making it easier to perform under pressure.
The same with my overall approach towards weapons, it forced me to realize you have to "open" things up if you don't want to get cut.
As for Orr I like his over all concept, at least as I perceive it. Correct me if you think I am off on this one but I see him as trying to apply the fundamental physical principles of WC (maintaining structure, centerline theory, disrupting the opponent's structure via said centerline.) Now this idea of his may not be applicable if you are simply doing WC v WC in a formal environment, even while sparing but I think taking this idea into the real world where you may find yourself fighting a grappler, a kicker a brawler who likes round punches, focusing on the principles and not the greater dogma of a lineage is a good idea.
....but I digress 
