The easiest way not to die from damage taken in a fight, is to not get hit in the first place. Avoiding blows is the best way to stay in a fight longer. By anticipating an attack, a warrior can move oneself out of the way, avoiding the hit. Those who are skilled at dodging hits, can easily take on much greater odds then those who can only get into a slugging match with their foe. Of course, the lighter one is encumbered, the better they are able to dodge, and the more encumbered they are, the more hindered they are at dodging attacks.