Asymmetry and leverage

Uniqueness and asymmetry in nature

A fundamental trait of nature is that we cannot find two identical elements, not even two identical grains of sand. This uniqueness is the nature’s defining print of perpetual evolution. Instead, nature uniqueness is the one that creates continuous movement and evolution. 

Since all elements of nature are unique, the notion of symmetry has no place here. In fact, all expressions of nature are asymmetric. Symmetry is constructed and dependent on rules. Antithetically, the only rule of asymmetry is constant change, adaptation and evolution. Symmetry reflects a static balance, asymmetry a dynamic one. Asymmetrical structures induce movement, and creativity. 

Leverage is applied asymmetry.

Leverage is using a smart effort to obtain maximum efficiency against a disproportional resistance. The parameters of this effort are proper timing, positioning, and speed of execution. Archimedes wrote "give me a place to stand on, and I will move the earth," showing that by using a lever with proper positioning, a man as small as he could move a load as big as Earth. 

Applied asymmetry (leverage) in judo / jiu-jitsu

One of the most used terms in jiu-jitsu is leverage. As previously noted, leverage is applied asymmetry.  In judo/ jiu jitsu, a small and weak person can defend and even win against a stronger, bigger opponent. This is possible not by exchanging power but by using grips, positioning, speed, flexibility, adaptability, and surprise attacks that lead the opponent to positions where the use of its strength or weight is useless to him. A small person squaring and symetric exchanging power with a large opponent can be a disaster for the small person. By applying asymmetry, the small person can disrupt, alter, and unbalance the larger opponent. 

Like nature,  the continuous evolution of judo / jiu-jitsu technicality is largely due to the constant search for leverage (applied asymmetry). Like nature, every technique in judo / jiu-jitsu is unique. It is this uniqueness that will keep the art evolving.

Other applications of asymmetry

Warfare: Symmetric or conventional warfare promotes the principle of proportionality in approaching an enemy force. In contrast, the asymmetric or non-conventional warfare uses guerilla tactics, in which a small group of combatants uses tactics like deception and surprise on vulnerable surfaces of a large army.