Academy of Jeet Kune Do Fighting Technology

Athens

Greece

Jun Fan Jeet Kune Do Instructor

Vagelis Zorbas

Martial Arts Terms

Purpose and Scope:

This glossary is provided to help the student become more familiar with terms and concepts commonly used in the martial arts. In many cases words listed may have multiple definitions or uses that may vary between schools and styles. In such cases, the most commonly accepted definition is given. Pronunciation is given where possible. This glossary is intended solely as an instructional tool for students of the martial arts. The inclusion of definitions that may relate to Eastern religious philosophy contained herein are for the purpose of contrast and comparison with terms used by this ministry and do not represent an endorsement of that philosophy.

-A-

advanced level A stage of sophisticated study in the martial arts, usually commencing at brown belt level.

aggressive offense Activating the first aggressive move of which the opponent is not aware.

alter To vary a weapon and/or target within a technique sequence.

American karate A hybrid form of traditional karate, which integrates techniques and philosophies from all styles to suit the needs of the American practitioner.

angle of cancellation A controlled angle that places an opponent in a precarious position, thus limiting or nullifying the use of his/her weapons.

angle of deflection The increased angle caused by a block, parry, or the like, that widely diverts the weapon from its target.

angle of delivery The positioning of one's natural weapons to make the execution of a movement accurate and effective.

angle of desired positioning Angle of efficiency.

angle of disturbance The angle that, when a move is executed, does not result in injury, but upsets his or her balance.

angle of efficiency The positioning of one's body to make the execution of a movement more efficient.

angle of execution Any angle, when an attack is executed, that produces maximum results.

angle of greatest movement The ideal positioning of one's body that allows one to move rapidly, easily, and without hesitation.

angle of opportunity A term encompassing all of the angular classifications, that when properly executed result in the desired effect.

angles of attack The eight directions from which an opponent can attack.

apex The uppermost point of any circular movement.

arm lock A restrictive hold in which one is rendered helpless by a twisting grip or locking force on the arm joints.

art 1. Any specific skill or application. 2. In Japanese martial arts, any jutsu (art) discipline that antedates its 20th-century counterpart, a do (way) discipline.

augment The act of using the supporting hand and/or arm to strengthen a block or strike in Okinawan or Japanese karate.

-B-

back-up mass The assistance of body weight used directly behind the action employed. For example, a punch delivered when the elbow is directly behind the fist, or the bracing of one finger directly behind the other in delivering a two-finger chop.

balance breaking: See kuzushi.

base line Imaginary line used to illustrate the direction and execution of a basic technique.

basics Fundamental techniques taught to novices as a foundation for advanced techniques.

basic exercises The repetition and pattern of fundamental techniques.

basic sparring Prearranged sparring.

black belt A symbol of rank worn about the waist to designate the level of expert skill achieved in the martial arts.

block Any technique that hinders, checks, or neutralizes an opponent's attack.

body communication The giving and receiving of information by body movements, mannerisms, expressions, gestures, habits, and so on. Each of these characteristics can be used by the experienced and intelligent fighter as a means of anticipating the opponent's strategy and thus defeat him or her with appropriate countermeasures.

body language Body movements, mannerisms, expressions, gestures, habits, and so on used in relaying either true or misleading information.

body style The particular characteristic which distinguishes the performance of one practitioner from another, even when executing the identical technique. The difference is a matter of personal interpretation and body shape.

body translation The decoding of body movements, which provides clues to an opponent's true intentions.

bow: A command used to bow. Other expressions may include rei (bow), shomen ni rei (bow to the front), sensei ni rei (bow to the teacher), and otagai ni rei (bow to each other).

Breaking The practice of breaking a variety of materials barehanded in order to test power. Also called tameshiwari.

breathing A significant martial arts technique used in the execution of technique to development force, reflect attacks, control tempo, and startle an opponent.

bridge To close the gap between oneself and an opponent.

broken rhythm A deliberate interruption of action used to deceive an opponent. It is related to deceptive timing.

buckle A method used to force the opponent's legs to bend in, out, forward or backward. Its use can unbalance, twist, sprain, or even break an opponent's leg.

-C-

cadence The method in which a fighter coordinates his tempo and rhythm to establish his overall timing pattern.

centering The total concentration of ki at approximately two inches below the navel, which is considered to be the body's center when relaxed.

center level The area of the body encompassing the area from the neck to the waist.

center line The center of the body encompassing some of the weakest parts, including the nose, chin, solar plexus, and groin.

center of gravity The center point of the body, approximately at the navel, around which the weight is evenly distributed.

cheat Refers to the execution of a deceptive move prior to the one intended.

check To restrain, hinder, or repress an opponent from taking action; accomplished by pinning, pressing, or hugging, usually at the joints, so that leverage is minimized thus nullifying the opponent's actions.

chee sao: See sticking hands.

choke Any form of obstructing an opponent's ability to breath by using various types of leg and arm leverage to pinch the air passage or a blood vessel close to the head, causing loss of consciousness.

circular movements Moves that loop or follow an oval. Such moves can be used either defensively or offensively and can orbit in a single direction or divert into multiple directions.

classical 1. A term used to describe the so-called pure systems of karate. Many of the movements associated with these systems are not practical in our present environment since the methods were created for the types of defense needed during ancient times. 2. A term designating techniques and/or philosophies conforming to certain standards of tradition.

code of bushido The samurai's code of honor.

committed action To move in such a manner as to bind oneself to a certain line of action.

compound techniques Any combination of techniques executed in rapid succession without returning to full guard.

conservation of motion Any movement that takes little time to execute but still causes the desired effect. Failure to cause the intended effect will only categorize the move as wasted motion. It must be short and effective to be considered economical. One of the aspects of focus (kime). Economy of motion.

continuity The principle that no move passes from one position to another without being utilized effectively. It is a counterpart of conservation of motion.

continuous techniques A method of attacking an opponent with a specific technique continuously and with proper timing to effect its execution.

continuous weapons The employment of a series of multiple natural weapons when involved in combat or freestyle.

controlled contact Another term for semi-contact karate.

controlled response The regulation of one's actions so that one does not react prematurely, unnecessarily, or foolishly.

coordination The synchronization of one's moves with the moves, timing, and direction of an opponent, in order to attack advantageously. This can also refer to movements brought into order to act as a whole.

counter; counterattack Any retaliatory technique instantaneously executed in opposition to an opponent's initial attack.

counterbalance Opposed forces that enhance the effectiveness of a blow, maneuver, or move.

cover-out A single crossover and a step back to increase the distance between oneself and an opponent and to place oneself in a safe position.

cover step The first step of a front crossover that aids in concealing the groin area.

-D-

deceptive action The use of feinting movements to deceive an opponent.

deceptive rhythm A planned sequence of irregular flow of action used to defeat an opponent. It is related to broken rhythm.

defense A protective move designed to protect against injury.

defensive offensive The execution of a move both protective to oneself and simultaneously injurious to one's opponent.

defensive persuasion Refers to forcing an opponent to defend a particular area, thus creating an opening elsewhere.

deflect To deviate the course of an attacking weapon.

delete The elimination of a weapon and target within a technique sequence.

discipline Training that develops self-control and character.

distraction Intentional move or moves used in free style or in combat to bewilder an opponent. Such moves will create an opening for a score or damaging blow.

diversified angle of attack The ability to attack from one direction and switch to another without any loss of motion.

diversified angle of cover Refers to the changing of directions while covering out; not getting into the habit of covering out in one direction.

diversified angle of retreat Another term meaning diversified angle of cover.

diversified targets Striking of varied targets to ensure multiple effect.

dojo (doh'joh) Jp. "the place of the way" A training hall or gymnasium where Japanese martial arts are practiced.

dojo etiquette The rules of conduct traditionally observed in the dojo that center around the virtues of humility and respect. Among the most common of these is the series of traditional bows performed upon entering and leaving the premises.

double check A single, simultaneous, or dual delivery that restrains, hinders, or represses an opponent from taking action from more than one leverage point.

double factor Entails a dual movement of defense that can incorporate any combination of blocks, parries, and checks. It also refers to movements that are both defensive and offensive.

drop The execution of moves that employ "marriage to gravity" when the body weight drops with the intended action

due back One of the eight directions of unbalance in judo. Known in Japanese as ma-ushiro.

due front One of the eight directions of unbalance in judo.

-E-

eight directions of unbalance: The eight points of the compass in an opponent may be moved so as break the balance. Also known as kuzushi.

empty hand One translation of karate (kara=empty; te=hand).

empty punching The practice of punching alternately with the right and left hands at an imaginary opponent.

environmental conditions Existing conditions of combat or free style sparring that include rules of a particular tournament, weather, time of day, number of persons involved, general surroundings, layout, terrain, and so on.

environmental weapons The ability to use whatever resources that readily present themselves as weapons of defense or attack.

explosive pressure Bursting aggressive action that keeps constant force on an opponent, thus preventing the opponent from setting up to retaliate.

extension The full extent or range of a technique.

extension of the body A doctrine common to the art of weaponry indicating that the weapon should not be manipulated as an extraneous unit, but as part of the entire body.

external power Power generated through external sources or muscular power as in most so-called "hard" karate systems.

-F-

fade out To move back from an action.

feel A word to describe the use of the foot in moving backward. When moving back, the foot should lightly slide so that it literally feels its way back to sense possible obstacles.

five-step sparring A method of prearranged practice fighting in which the attacker takes five steps forward to deliver a series of attacks, while the defender retreats and blocks and then executes a counter to the final attacking technique.

flowing punch A karate technique that jointly blocks and counters in the same motion. Known as the nagashi-zuki in Japanese.

fluidity That property of smoothly mixing sustained movements with sudden bursts of power. This quality is particularly evident in a fine kata performance.

flurry In karate, a fast, explosive exchange of techniques.

footwork The act of using the feet for offensive or defensive mobility when fighting.

focus The act of concentrating complete mental and physical force into a single striking point. Known in Japanese as kime.

follow through To continue execution of a technique to its absolute conclusion.

follow up Any technique that immediately follows another as repetition or addition.

footwork The act of using the feet for offensive and/or defensive mobility when fighting.

forging post See striking post.

form 1. An expression used in martial arts to describe the manner in which one executes techniques. Good form consists of proper posture, balance, coordination, timing, and the controlled use of speed and power. 2. A predetermined pattern of movement synonymous with almost every martial art. Known in Japanese as kata (formal exercise), in Korean as hyung (pattern), and in Chinese as kuen.

formal exercise: See form (2)

foundation A strong base of fundamental techniques upon which progress can be achieved.

four-step sparring A method of prearranged practice fighting in which the attacker takes four steps forward to deliver a series of attacks and the defender blocks throughout the sequence and counters the final technique.

freestyle sparring Usually the most advanced stage of martial arts training in which two opponents fight each other without predetermined variables. Known in Japanese as jiyu kumite.

frictional pull The multiple effects caused by scraping, hooking and pulling; the result causes pain to an opponent.

full-contact karate A contest in which two players engage in full-contact bouts using protective hand and foot pads. The objective is to render the other player unconscious. Rounds are two minutes in length with one minute rest periods in between.

-G-

gate One of ten imaginary doors or avenues of attack and/or evasion used to close or increase the distance between two opponents. The gates are: forward, backward, right side, left side, right front corner, left front corner, right rear corner, left rear corner, rising, and dropping.

gi (ghee) Jp. "uniform" or "suit"

gravitational marriage: See marriage to gravity.

groundwork A term often used in judo when referring to techniques performed while on the ground. See also grappling techniques.

guard The position of the hands and legs when squaring off to fight, or between execution of techniques.

gung-fu (gung foo') Ch. The Cantonese pronunciation of kung-fu.

-H-

hand conditioning The act of striking, rubbing, or grinding the hands against an abrasive surface in order to toughen the skin and bone by building calluses and producing calcium deposits. While the practice is supposed to result in stronger techniques and protection of the hands from injury, serious or even permanent damage may result from this training.

hard style 1. In Chinese boxing, representative of an external system. 2. A contemporary term denoting a system that primarily employs hard, powerful techniques executed in linear patterns.

harness the force To capitalize and bring into condition the production of maximum power. In short, teaching a student how to obtain 100 % power related to one's body structure.

high-line guard Any guard where the lead hand is raised to shoulder level.

high stance A position facilitating mobility in which the center of gravity remains high off the ground by less bending of the knees and assuming a narrow stance.

hip rotation A torque motion common to almost all martial arts, used in conjunction with the execution of certain techniques to generate power.

hip switch The act of using hip rotation to set up and deliver a technique.

honorary degree Refers to rank given to someone who has not otherwise earned it through normal channels. Often ranks of seventh to tenth degree black belt are honorary degrees given for years of devotion, study, and contributions to the martial arts.

horizontal zones Another of the categorical zones of protection. It basically entails the protection of three horizontal or height levels: the solar plexus to the top of the head; the groin to the solar plexus; and the feet to the groin.

hug Keeping close to or up against a key part of an opponent's body, thus minimizing opportunities for leverage and action.

-I-

initiative The ability to make the attack on an opponent's centerline.

inner power: See chi; ki.

insert The addition of a weapon or move simultaneous with, or sandwiched between, the base moves.

instep The top of the foot used as a striking point.

isometrics A set of body building exercises performed by pushing or pulling against an immovable opposing force.

-J-

jamming A term denoting any forward motion to neutralize a kick or punch by pressing into a close tight position relative to the opponent.

jeet kune do (jeet koon doh') Ch. "way of the intercepting fist" A collection of basic mental and physical concepts, observations of combat maneuvers, and philosophies of attitude gathered by the late Bruce Lee.

ju (joo) Jp. "gentle," "supple," or "soft" 1. The principle of suppleness, adaptation, and non-resistance recognized in aikido and judo. 2. The number ten.

judo (joo'doh) Jp. "gentle way" A Japanese art of self-defense and a sport with Olympic recognition, judo is now practiced in almost every country in the world. Like jujutsu, its forerunner, judo is a method of turning an opponent's strength and overcoming by skill and technique. judo in its present form was created by Jigoro Kano in 1882 who gave the sport its name.

jujutsu (joo-jut'soo) Jp. "art of gentleness," "art of suppleness," "art of pliancy" Literally, the art of suppleness, flexibility, pliancy, gentleness-all varying renditions of the ideogram "ju." All of these terms, however, represent a single principle, a general method of applying a technique, of using the human body as a weapon in unarmed combat.

-K-

karate (ka-ra'tay) Jp. "empty hand" or "China hand" An unarmed method of combat in which all parts of the anatomy are used to punch, strike, kick, or block. Karate originated in Okinawa as te (hand), and was directly influenced by earlier Chinese martial arts.

Korean karate A name sometimes used for tae kwon do.

kumite (koo'mee-teh) Jp. "sparring" A term used in karate for a form of training in which two opponents confront each other in simulated combat. In karate, there are a number of types of kumite, all different: one-step through five-step sparring, all prearranged.

kung-fu (kung-foo') Ch. "skill," "time," "strength," "ability," "task," or "work" A period of time used by a person to perform a specific type of task or work and a subsequent generic term used to refer to the Chinese unarmed martial arts. Also known as gung fu and wu shu.

-L-

leverage points Fixed points at which force, minimum or otherwise, can be used to overthrow an opponent or prevent an action from taking place.

light contact A term used to designate a type of competition or sparring in which lightly striking an opponent with controlled force to the body is permitted, but contact to the face is not.

linear movements Moves that are direct in nature and follow a straight path. They are primarily offensive, but can be utilized defensively or as follow-ups after meeting resistance.

lock A martial arts term designating a technique that immobilizes the part of the body to which it is applied, usually a joint.

lock-out Refers to the delivery of a technique that remains at the target upon contact, instead of being retracted.

logistics The aspect of positional theory concerned with the use of tactical footwork on a given battlefield to effect the most favorable fighting distances from an opponent.

long-range techniques Any techniques with which a fighter can reach an opponent at the longest distance, using the full extension of the arms or legs.

low-line guard Any guard where the lead hand is lowered to the waist level.

low lines The positional coordinates located below the waist.

-M-

major moves Strong and positive moves which cause immediate devastation.

maneuver A method one uses to close or extend range.

margin for error The execution of a defensive and/or offensive move that, when delivered, provides greater latitude to work with the event of error, or miscalculation.

marriage to gravity The uniting of strength, mind, and breath while dropping with the weight of the body. The merger of all of the above factors at the time the body drops greatly adds to the force of a blow or strike. Known also as gravitational marriage.

martial Military, warlike, fighting.

martial arts An encompassing term usually reserved for the Asian fighting arts. although it can apply to any fighting discipline with or without weapons.

mate (ma'teh) Jp. "wait" A referee's command used in a Japanese style-match to indicate to the contestants that they must temporarily halt their action.

mechanical Refers to those movements that appear very staccato; a sequence of movements that appear as if they are being done by the numbers.

method of execution The manner in which a move is executed to produce maximum results. For example, several methods could be used to execute a punch: a direct course, a dipping path, a roundhouse, and so on.

middle A term often used to refer the bodily area from the stomach to the neck.

middle lines The positional coordinates located below the shoulders and above the waist.

minor moves Subordinate moves, although not devastating, allow the set up of a major move.

momentary conditioning The ability to condition one's opponent to think one way, only to reverse the conditioned reflex so as to set him up for an attack.

multiple attack An attack by two or more opponents.

-N-

natural weapons Parts of the body used as offensive weapons, including parts of the hand, arm, foot, leg, and so on.

nerve centers Pressure points of the body that, when attacked, cause a great deal of pain.

neutralized hands The positioning of one's hands in a neutral area for maximum availability in nullify contact to the body with various techniques, but are forbidden to strike the face. See light contact.

neutral range The distance between two opponents at which neither can reach the other with a kick or punch without closing the distance.

non-contact karate A type of karate competition in which the players are permitted to make only light contact to the body and are forbidden to strike the face.

-O-

offense Any act of attacking.

offensive check A single move which first acts as a check before becoming a strike or hit.

one-steps A method of practicing martial arts techniques where one step is taken and then a technique is delivered.

one-step sparring A method of prearranged practice fighting in which the designated attacker takes one step forward to deliver a single technique, and the defender blocks and immediately counters. Known as ippon kumite.

open-hand techniques Those offensive and defensive martial arts techniques executed with the fingers partially or fully extended. When any of the fingers meet the palm, the fist is in some way clenched and the technique can no longer be categorized as open-hand.

opposing force Two forces going in opposite directions of each other.

outer rim The imaginary oval within which techniques can be delivered without overextending or over committing their moves.

overemphasis The act of exaggerating a technique to the point of unnaturalness.

overextension The act of extending a technique to the point where one's balance becomes unstable.

overhand According to some styles, any hand technique performed where the hand is raised above the elbow.

over-reach To overextend oneself needlessly with a blow or kick; to reach above or beyond a point unnecessarily.

-P-

parry To evade, or redirect the force of a blow or kick.

pattern A series of prearranged offensive and defensive maneuvers executed against one or more imaginary attacking opponents. See kata.

penetration point That imaginary point beyond the intended target, which compels the attacker not to prematurely tense the punch, kick, strike, and so forth. Fulfillment of this principle will greatly enhance the power of an attack.

perimeter Another name for critical distance, the area between opponents.

pin The pressing of joints or other key areas on an opponent's body to one's own body. This momentarily keeps an opponent stationary.

pinning check A restraining viselike move used to hinder an opponent from taking action.

pivot The act of swinging or turning the body while keeping the center of gravity fixed at a central point.

pivot point The point, spot, or position that the body uses as an axis on which to turn.

planned reaction A predetermined scheme for making an opponent respond prematurely.

point of activity The center of action where attention should be focused.

point of focus In karate, any pinpoint location of a striking point to which the entire force of the body is concentrated in conjunction with the execution of a technique.

poke Refers to the thrusting of the tips of the fingers or the joints to specific targets of the opponent's body.

posture Position of the body in relation to the technique being executed.

prearranged sparring A method of prearranged practice fighting in which both participants are aware of the intended attacks, blocks, and counters.

predetermined commitment Purposeful pre-planned moves to be used in setting up an opponent.

pressure points Nerve centers located on various parts of the body and serving as primary targets in most martial arts.

preventive motion Movements used to ward off attacks or stabilize a body target when executing a major move. They can be parries, light blocks, or pushing moves.

projection The act of bring forth additional energy while performing martial arts kata or forms. Performers generate intense feeling in a stylish display, as if they are actually involved in a realistic fighting situation.

punching techniques Any clenched-fist technique in which the force is directed in a straight line through the forearm to the striking point.

-R-

range The distance existing between opponents.

rank A term used in the martial arts to designate the level of achievement anywhere from white belt to 10th degree black belt.

reactionary set-up Having an opponent respond to a faked stimulus, thus creating vulnerability to one's attack.

ready stance A preparatory position assumed at the beginning or conclusion of training from which one waits for another command to continue or to stop.

reap An action of the leg or foot to sweep away the legs or feet of an opponent in the execution of a throw.

rear crossover Moving the back foot crossing over and back of the forward leg, or the forward leg moving over and back of the rear leg. Cross behind.

recoil To spring back after a blow or kick has been delivered; a fast retrieve after delivery.

reference point That point of origin in a sequence that one can refer to before proceeding to the opposite side. The same sequence can then be executed on the opposite side. It also indicates the directing of attention to a particular point in a technique sequence.

reflex action designating an involuntary action to an attack. It is the ultimate aim in all martial arts to attain lightning reflex action against any type of attack so as to eliminate the momentary hesitation that accompanies the thinking process. See spontaneity.

reinforced blocks Blocking techniques in which one arm performs the actual blocking while the other supports it. Also known as augmented blocks.

relaxed moves Moves that are completely relaxed in nature when used offensively or defensively. Tension, however, does come into play at the conclusion of these moves. Such moves become faster and more flexible, to the point where pain is lessened, and can easily be redirected to another target.

repetition Something repeated such as a technique or combination. It is the key to reaching mechanical proficiency in the martial arts.

response-hit A counterattack coming in immediate response to an opponent's attack.

retraction The act of drawing back a technique following execution, usually as rapidly as it was delivered.

reverse side The side of the body furthest from the body.

-S-

salutation A traditional greeting or paying of respects indigenous to the Chinese martial arts. It is generally performed by placing one clenched fist against the open palm of the opposite hand. Hammer and shield.

sandwiching The striking of a target from both ends, greatly increasing the pressure and effect. This causes a vice- like effect since the target is not able to ride with any of the two striking forces. Here the principle of prevention of motion is employed.

sash A silk band worn around the waist to denote a level of skill or achievement in some styles of the Chinese martial arts.

semi-classical style A term used in the United States and Europe when referring to karate styles that find their roots in the Orient, but which have deviated either philosophically or technically from the original system. Many American karate instructors fall into this category by having synthesized two or more styles to suit their needs and those of their students.

semi-contact karate A term used to describe karate competition in which the contestants wear protective equipment on both their hands and feet and are permitted to deliver controlled techniques with moderate contact.

semi-free one-blow sparring A method of prearranged karate practice fighting in which both participants move freely about while the attacker delivers only a single technique and the defender blocks and immediately counters.

setting The act of lowering the center of gravity while striking in order to enhance power.

simple techniques Those techniques executed in one movement, either direct or indirect.

slice A method of attack that, when executed, skims the surface of the target. Though not penetrating, it is effective. A minor move used to set up an opponent for a major move.

slide step: See step-drag.

sliding kick A method of kicking in which the rear foot is slid beside the forward kicking foot before execution in order to keep the center of gravity low and diminish the distance to the target area by using the forward side.

smashing techniques Hand techniques other than punches or strikes, such as elbow blows.

snap A particular method of execution that involves the use of a whipping-type attack or blow, but with greater magnitude than a whip.

soft style A term designating a martial art that advocates fluid, circular techniques coupled with an emphasis on chi, such as many kung-fu systems.

solar plexus A network of nerves in the abdomen behind the stomach commonly used as a critical target area.

sole of the foot A striking point for the crescent kick and crescent-kick block.

sparring A form of martial arts training in which two opponents face one another and simulate actual combat. There are various types, depending on the practitioner's ability. Types of sparring vary from one-step prearranged to free style, unrehearsed simulated combat using attacks and defenses delivered at will. Various stages exist between one-step and free-style with increased steps and spontaneity.

spontaneity The ability to react naturally to an impromptu attack or situation without conscious effort or restraint.

sport karate Competitive karate in which two contestants engage in simulated and real combat, depending on the type of fighting. There are three types of karate competition practiced today: non-contact, semi-contact, full-contact.

stability A state of balance imperative for good martial arts performance.

stages of distance Those varying distances that exist between oneself and an opponent which can be closed or increased by selecting one of the foot maneuvering sequences.

stamping kick A thrust kick executed downward, usually with the heel.

stance A position of the feet allowing maximum balance, stability or mobility for a compatible technique. The hundreds of martial arts movements understandably require different stances compatible to each movement.

step-drag A method of shuffling where the foot, nearest the direction in which one is moving, is lifted, stepping forward or backward with the other dragging in the same direction to meet it.

sticking hands The practice of certain complicated hand and arm maneuvers that render an opponent immobile and allow the user to dominate and attack the opponent's vulnerable areas. Also known as chee sao.

stop-hit A counterattack that stops the opponent's attacking limb before it reaches full extension.

straight punch Any number of martial arts punching techniques characterized by the straightforward thrusting of the fist. Known in Japanese as choku-zuki.

strategics The aspect of positional theory concerned with the use of planned attacks to secure the position of advantage on a moment-to-moment basis.

strategy The development of a battle plan through which offense and defense are maximized with a minimum of risk.

striking area Another name for target area, any part of the body that one attacks.

striking point Any part of the body with which one strikes a target area.

striking post A straw padded striking post designed for toughening various striking points. It is constructed from a piece of wood about 60 inches long and tapered at one end, the thin end of which is mounted on a platform or secured to the ground. Knuckles, elbows, feet, and so on are toughened by repeated strikes to the post. Also known as a makiwara.

striking techniques Any technique where the force is transmitted laterally, usually with a snapping motion of the arm. This method includes punches. Known in Japanese as uchi-waza.

stripe A strip of cloth worn horizontally across the tips of a belt denoting progress toward the next belt level. Some styles sanction the use of red stripes on a black belt to indicate dan rank. In the United States, the use of colored belts has almost completely replaced the use of stripes to represent kyu grades.

styles A word indicating a type of martial art.

stylist Any practitioner of a particular martial art.

surprise attack Any planned attack predicated on an understanding of distraction to exploit weaknesses in the opponent's focus of attention.

sweep A method of throwing or unbalancing an opponent by upsetting one or both feet from under them.

switch The changing from one stance or position to another while in place. This is performed while moving the feet from one spot to another and involves a lead leg where one of three actions can take place: moving the back leg forward, moving the forward leg back, or jumping in place.

synchronization Refers to an opponent coordinating moves, timing, and direction with one's own in order to take advantage of opportunities for attacking.

synchronized kata Two or more performers executing the same form simultaneously or a two-person team simulating an actual fight. This event was introduced to karate tournament competition in the 1970's, but is more commonly seen in martial arts demonstrations.

-T-

tactical footwork The use of the feet as they pertain to the execution of techniques.

tactics The aspect of positional theory concerned with the selection of the most efficient techniques to be used against a given opponent.

takedown A term used in judo when referring to mat work or hold-down techniques.

tangible weapons The four limbs of the body for striking, the eyes for increasing peripheral vision, the waist for additional power, and footwork to maneuver the body in or out of combat range. All are believed to primary body weapons in many systems of unarmed combat.

target areas Any specific part of the body to which an attack or technique is delivered.

tear A ripping motion that actually involves grabbing while pulling.

technique conscious Term describing a fighter who is more conscious of the form than of the effectiveness of techniques.

three-step sparring A variation of five-step sparring.

thrust A particular method of execution involving the use of propelling, push-type attack or blow.

thrust kick A method of execution in which the kicking foot is thrust outward with driving force and strengthened momentarily before contact by locking out the hip.

time hit A counterattack that hits the opponent at about the same time the attacking limb reaches full extension.

timing A fighter's ability to impose their cadence on the opponent's so attacks are able to penetrate the opponent's defense, and the defense stops the opponent's attack. Efficient timing is the essence of skill in unarmed combat.

traditionalist Any practitioner who conforms to the customs, beliefs, and philosophies handed down through tradition.

transitory move The intermediate move that often takes place when moving from one position to another.

trapping hands The name for various defensive tactics whereby one or both hands trap both of the opponent's hands, sometimes using one of the opponent's arms to block his other arm.

two-step sparring A variation of five-step sparring.

-U-

uncommitted action The realization that one is not to move in such a way as to be bound to a certain line of action.

uniform Any one of various types of outfits traditionally worn by practitioners of the martial arts. Also called a gi.

unintentional moves Accidental and unplanned moves by an opponent that, when unchecked or unanticipated, can defeat you.

-V-

vertical zones One of the three categorical zones of protection encompassing four vertical, or width, segments requiring protection: left outside shoulder to middle of left chest; middle of left chest to sternum; sternum to middle of right chest; and middle of right chest to the outside of the right shoulder.

vital areas Essential body parts that, when struck, can be injurious or fatal.

-W-

walking techniques A series of exercises involving five steps forward then back, during which various basic techniques are executed.

wasted motion A move that lacks economy, or is delivered needlessly, or does not produce the intended effect. It is the opposite of the concept of conservation of motion.

weapon A term used to describe any particular striking point, e.g., elbow, knee, palm, heel, fist.

weight distribution The apportionment of weight to each leg related to a particular stance and/or movement. It may vary from 50/50, 60/40, 75/25, 90/10.

whip A particular method of execution involving the use of a snapping type of attack or blow, but with less magnitude than a snap.

working sequence Any technique sequence that is highly practical.

wrist lock A hold whereby one is controlled by a painful twisting grip on the wrist.

-X-Y-Z-

X block Any block where one arm overlaps the other, usually at the wrist or forearm. Known in Japanese as the juji-uke.

yame (ya-meh') Jp. "halt" or "stop" A Japanese command chiefly used in competition.

zones of defense; zones of protection The shielding of the body, with consideration given to three protective zones: horizontal, depth, and vertical.