PHYSIOKINETIC; SUB-PRINCIPLE: Centerline

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The centerline principle works on two premises: (1) As most vital targets are along the centerline of the body, we must protect our centerline while controlling the adversary’s. (2) Control the centerline, control the confrontation. We need not fight head-on in order to reap the benefits of this principle. 

Note: this principle, although valid, is explained from a perspective that seems more sportive rather than combative or as to self-defense where pain, surprise, etc., are involved. It must be noted that the only true centerline that must be maintained is yours, every other direction with the rear and surprise being optimal, means the adversary’s centerline is not facing yours - a benefit for you. 

The preferred targets reside along the centerline of the body. Understanding centerline targets proves essential, but not as essential as understanding the importance of “controlling the centerline” itself. Your hands and arms positioned in front of you provide protection to your centerline. We use our positioning of centerline in relation to that of our adversary to protect vital targets while exposing those of our adversary. Used with the triangle guard formed by the arms and hands provides us protection, etc.

We can also use angling to access the adversary’s centerline. Our triangle guard should face the adversary’s centerline while our centerline is off at an angle from the adversary’s triangle guard. The triangle guard maintains integrity as long as it meets force straight on with its point. 

Centerline applies toward grappling and other ranges of fighting, combat or defense. Sensing through the centerline an adversary’s weight distribution, balance and balance points allows us to apply appropriate methodologies of defense. It is a superior action when one grasps control by the centerline over the shoulders and/or elbows.

Attacking the centerline attacks a persons core, which is why we seek centerline/core in our adversary while simultaneously protecting our centerline from them. 

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