The True Meaning Behind Korthals’ Point at the Griffon – You’re Not Prepared for This - Imagemakers

Understanding the Context

Korthals’ Point is a foundational concept in Dutch long stick (Long Stick Fighting or Kagrifighting) system derived from the teachings of Joost?’ Korthals Alting, a legendary teacher whose work preserved and evolved traditional fighting methods. It refers to the precise moment in a strike or confrontation when linear force meets optimal leverage, creating maximum disruption with minimal effort. But at the Griffon—the signature throw or control applying this principle—“point” takes on symbolic meaning beyond mechanics.

The Griffon: A Moment of Preparation and Prediction

“You’re not prepared for this” is not just a warning—it’s an initiation into the mindset behind the Griffon. The Griffon is executed when the defender senses an impending attack, assesses the attacker’s trajectory, and applies Korthals’ Point at the exact second the opponent’s momentum peaks. This moment demands more than raw strength; it requires:

• Awareness: Reading subtle cues in an opponent’s stance and movement.
  - Anticipation: Training the body and mind to predict and counter with precision.
  - Forging not resisting force: Using the attacker’s energy against them, aligning technique with their intent rather than fighting it directly.

Key Insights

Why Most Ignore the Deeper Truth

Most practitioners focus narrowly on drills, forms, and muscle memory—critical, yes—but overlook the mental and philosophical layers. What makes Korthals’ Point at the Griffon transformative is its demand for emotional and psychological readiness:

• Preparedness is mental: You can train throws until failure, but true mastery is facing fear, doubt, and surprise with calm trust in technique.
  - It exposes unpreparedness you didn’t know existed: Even elite fighters falter when stress disrupts timing. The Griffon reveals who understands their limitations.
  - It’s a metaphor beyond combat: In everyday life, this moment mirrors readiness to confront unexpected challenges—knowing when to act, when to adapt, and when to yield with strategy.

Mastering the Point—A Step Beyond Technique

To truly grasp Korthals’ Point at the Griffon, train not only your body but your mindset:

Final Thoughts

• Practice scenario-based drills simulating surprise pressure.
  - Study viewpoints from veteran instructors who emphasize timing over power.
  - Reflect on how unpredictability tests preparation and discipline.

This isn’t just about executing a move—it’s about cultivating a warrior’s readiness to face whatever comes unannounced.

Conclusion: The Unseen Challenge

Korthals’ Point at the Griffon stands as a profound metaphor: effortless force born from deep awareness, discipline, and trust. It’s not about being physically stronger—it’s about understanding when to move, how to use resistance, and when to stay emotionally unshaken.

If you think your training prepares you, take this idea—because the true test lies in the “You’re not prepared for this” moment. It’s a challenge not just to execute, but to be—ready, focused, and profoundly aware.

Ready to unlock the deeper meaning? Study Korthals’ philosophy honestly, train your instincts, and embrace the uncertainty that makes mastery possible. Your greatest preparation begins now.