Market timing has become very difficult with the speed and velocity of market movements on news. Computer trading has completely changed things, not to say the algorithms are always right, but they move the market faster than you can digest news to make an informed decision.
Long term, the only timing you should do is rebalance back to your target allocation if the portfolio has drifted too far in either direction.
Short term, you shouldn't have short term money in the market.
Shorting the market... losing long term strategy, you say you are not a long term investor? Then cash is the right choice for you
(not directed at you frk)