Blind spot VS Center line

**Ronin** · Posted On: 10/08/2004 12:02pm

The "blind spot" or the "centerline ?

Which do you prefer and why?

The blind spot is when you move and counter on the outside of your opponent.
EX:
He throws a punch with his right hand, you parry it with your left to his inside as you step to the outside on a 45 degree angel, you counter with a right punch to the head or body or a right kick to the head or body.

The centerline has been discussed to death, but here is a quick example:
Same attack ( right punch)
You parry with your left on the inside of his right arm, aprrying his right arm to his outside, as you counter with a backfist to the face with your right hand, followed by a hammerfist to the groin with the same hand, followed by an elboe to the face with the parrying ( left) arm.

Pros:
Blind spot: allows you to hit and be on the outside of your attacker so as to not be counter as easily
Centerline: allows you to access the more "vital" targets.

Cons:
Blind spot: more tricky to apply against circular attacks, targets as limited.
Centerline: Leaves you in position to be hit by attackers other limbs, easier for you to be "grappled".

Thoughts and opinions please.

**Ronin** · Posted On: 10/08/2004 12:07pm

Pic of the "blind spot" principle:

**Mr. Mantis** · Posted On: 10/08/2004 12:12pm

Blind spot.

**blankslate** · Posted On: 10/08/2004 12:16pm

G spot.

**Gypsy Jazz** · Posted On: 10/08/2004 1:52pm

I like to try and get whatever I can, but I think if I were forced to choose, I'd go with the blind spot. Although the targets open to you are not quite as "vital" from the blind spot , I feel you're safer and still have enough places to hit your opponent that'll put the hurt on. Kicking/stepping on the back of the knee is always a great way to knock some one off balance, and it's not too tough to get from the blind spot.

I unfortunatley don't have nearly as much sparring experience as I'd like, so I might be talking out my ass a bit.

**Lights Out** · Posted On: 10/08/2004 1:57pm

Are we talking about a combat sport or teh Str333th!!!1

I´m no expert on streetfights, but I think the centerline it´s quicker and involves less body movement... more simple if you want. I´ve always thought tha the more simple something is the more suitable for the street.

In combat sport it depends on the attacks, I wouldn´t use the same tricks over and over agina the same opponent. Changing your game puzzles your opponent.

Allright, you asked what did I prefer, so... let´s say blind spot. I´ve always liked boxers who move a lot in fights, it keeps things more interesting. Centerline is for sluggers who fight inside (I´m thinking of the mighty Roderto "Manos de Piedra" Duran).

**blankslate** · Posted On: 10/08/2004 1:59pm

I have a conflict.

In Karate/TKD we were taught to move to the outside of the attack (blind spot) and that also seems to be the ideal for a realistic self defense scenario---great prelude for running the hell away also.

But in kickboxing, you are taught to stay in front of the target area--get inside the attack and move forward to hit all the juicy legal targets as well as drive the opponent backwards. Delivering a strong uppercut to the chin is an example of that.

After the last Atlanta Throwdown, I have decided that staying outside of someone like Asia and an agressive fighter like the Osiris is the right thing to do.

Perhaps its good to understand both as you may get caught inside and may feel overwhelmed.

I vote outside....uh, was this supposed to be a poll?!