Tempo (attack skills)

Tempo is setting the pace. Each competitor is attempting to dominate and dictate the engagement, and therefore force their opponent to react and defend instead of focusing on their own attacks.

Attack when you are losing. Speed up the engagement and create space to scramble and grab opportunities. Make your opponent think about and deal with the threat you are posing.

Defend when you are winning. Slow it down and secure your dominant position. Keep control with inevitable progress towards the submission.

Controlling the tempo allows you to change the realm of the competition. It is no longer just about who has better technique, or is stronger. Your opponent has to now deal with fear and doubt imposed by your ability to control one more aspect.