Primo Angle in Karate

The primo angle within karate for defense and offense is 22 1/2 degrees. A good way to get a feel for how that works is with a heavy bag, initially. Let the bag hang in a stationary position then use a string under the bottom center to mark a spot on the floor directly underneath it. Then use blue tape to mark a line from that center point outward in a straight line far enough that you can take a kamae anywhere along that line to judge distances from your position and the stationary position of the heavy bag, the bag is your adversary.

Use a compass and mark an arrow at that center point of the tape under the bag that points 22 1/2 degrees off the base line. Use a piece of blue painters tape again to extend from the center point following that arrow outward in another straight line that follows that 22 1/2 degree. Do this again on the other side of the base line. 

There are some things you will notice as you look down at the tape on the floor. The more distance away from the adversary the greater the distance to travel in attaining that new angled position. This in and of itself takes time and distance so you should begin to understand that the closer you are to the adversary the faster you can get to that 22 1/2 degree point. 

As stated in the principles the three angles used by most combatants in a training cycle are this 22 1/2 degree angle then the 45 degree angle and finally the 90 degree angle. Another point should become apparent that in order to reach any other angle you pass through that 22 1/2 degree angle point. In addition the 45 and 90 also take up more time and travel distance and that violates some other principles involved. 

The reason the principle of angling and positioning tend to use this first primo angle in martial arts is because the closer you are to the adversary the faster you get to that position allowing you to apply appropriate techniques that also get you to the end of the loop faster. Since you get there faster you maintain your access to the adversaries center line of targeting while your centerline is moved away from the adversaries position. If the adversary wants to re-orient to your center line he has to move. 

The angle is also apparent in other parts that contribute to success in a combative hand-to-hand situation, i.e. such as the proper alignment of bones for striking, the path for entering into a wrist grab defense, and many more aspects of the principles. 

Our orientation, i.e. position and angle, tend to put is in a superior position if we act in a manner that takes advantage to the principles while an adversary has to re-orient staying in the loop and so on. 

Something to think about .....

Click for larger view.

Bibliography:
Pearlman, Steven J. "The Book of Martial Power." Overlook Press. N.Y. 2006.