According to defensive tactics principles, why should actions not be telegraphed?

Not telegraphing actions is crucial because it enhances the effectiveness of defensive tactics. When a practitioner’s movements are unpredictable and sudden, it prevents the subject from anticipating what will happen next. This surprise can give the practitioner a significant advantage, allowing for a quicker and more decisive response in high-pressure situations.

If actions are telegraphed, the subject may prepare to counter those moves, thus diminishing the impact of the defensive tactics being employed. Maintaining a level of unpredictability allows a practitioner to maintain control of the situation, increases the likelihood of successfully executing techniques, and can lead to more effective outcomes in encounters where defensive tactics are necessary.