Which of the following is a pre-attack posture?

• A. Hand set/clenched fists
• B. Boxer stance
• C. Shoulder shift
• D. Thousand yard stare

Answer: (B)

Recognizing pre-attack postures helps you anticipate potential violence and respond appropriately. The boxer stance is a classic pre-attack posture because it presents a forward-leaning, ready-to-strike position. Feet are planted and balanced, hips and shoulders squared toward the target, knees slightly bent, and hands up near the face for protection and to initiate punches. This setup communicates clear intent to engage and the ability to close distance quickly, signaling imminent aggression.

In comparison, clenched fists alone can show anger but don’t by themselves establish the full readiness to act; a shoulder shift may indicate tension or movement but not necessarily immediate aggression; a thousand-yard stare suggests focus or dissociation rather than intent to attack.