09/10/2026
One is None, Two is One, Three is Better
“One is None, Two is One, Three is Better” is a core concept of how we build out our technique systems at Quest. If you only have one solution to a problem, & it fails, then you don’t have a solution. We need contingency plans to deal with the most likely ways an opponent or attacker attempts to counter us.
One example of how this plays out is expressed in our “Hubs & Spokes” method (this concept was taught to me by the great Dave Camarillo ) of positional categorization. This week, as part of our technique sequence, we are entering into a “Muso Dori” arm lock & practicing 3 options from there: 1. Finish the takedown with the bar, 2. Transition into a Kimura/Ude-Gaeshi, or 3. Use it to break the opponent down to slide into a Guillotine/Ninja Choke/Snap-Down. (The Guillotine position is another “Hub.”)
In our classes this month, we are practicing “Headquarters Passing” (along with other skills), & one of the sequences we are looking at was taught to us by the great Ffion Eira Davies During her seminar, she showed a passing system that put you into position for a “Knee-Cut,” “Smash Pass,” or “Leg-Weave” option, depending on the reactions that your opponent gives you.
In our Black Belt training this month, we are working through the Kukishinden Ryu Happo-Biken (8 Secrets of the Sword) & focusing on the Kata Kiri-Sage. In this exercise (taught to me by the great Stephen Hayes), we practice flowing into three potential technique options based on what “energy” (directional pressure or vacuum) our opponent gives us. This kata study is what motivated me to take the “1 is None, 2 is 1, 3 is Better” concept & identify & build out not just solutions, but systems. If you have systems that you can rely on, that are reproducible & predictable, then you can relax enough to enter into a “flow state” (Mu-Shin).
That’s too much for Instagram & Facebook, but if you don’t know what this means but are intrigued, then come train with us! If you do know what it means, then bring your gloves, a training sword, & your mouthpiece, and I’ll see you at Quest.
