The principles we use in our training are physical mechanics of technique, and when understood, provide a common language for all movement. This is so we can discover how to learn and not just what to learn. There are infinite techniques available to a student dependent upon style and instructor, but there are only a finite number of principles. Through the use of these principles students integrate knowledge at the root level. These principles, which are evident in all physical technique, are keys to improving your skills.

1 Circular Motion

2 Linear Motion

3 Drop Motion

4 Lift Motion

5 Cross Motion

6 Continuous Motion

7 No Motion

LIFT MOTION
Lift motion is any time you are performing an action away from the Earth, as with your hips while applying a standard arm-bar.

DROP MOTION
Drop motion is any time you are applying weight toward the Earth, as with your feet while applying a standard arm-bar.

LINEAR MOTION
Linear motion refers to any movement parallel to the Earth’s surface, as with the stretching of your opponents arm to take out the slack while applying a standard arm-bar.

CIRCULAR MOTION
Circular motion is simply an action that moves in a circular direction, as with the rotation of your pelvis while applying a standard arm-bar.

CROSS MOTION
Cross motion is any action that has at least one opposing force. More specifically, cross motion can be performed on an axis or a fulcrum. If cross motion is applied on an axis you achieve rotational spin like in a sweeping throw. If cross motion is applied on a fulcrum you create a point of stress as in an arm-bar. In order for cross motion to be applied on a fulcrum, it is essential to have at least two opposing forces, as seen with the example of an arm-bar. In order for an arm-bar to be effective, you must form a basic lever, which consists of a load, a fulcrum, and a force. If your load, which is your legs, is equal to the force, which is the pulling of the hand; then the lifting of the hips will create a cross motion and dislocate the arm at the elbow, which is the appropriate fulcrum.

CONTINUOUS MOTION
Continuous motion is the physical principle that creates momentum. Continuously moving helps to generate power. As with striking, when you throw a jab you create the pre-stretch and momentum for a powerful strait punch.

NO MOTION
No motion is the physical principle that allows for explosive power. As an explosion is defined by contrast, no motion can generate an element of surprise.