Understanding Lateral Fields of Engagement in Combat
Side-to-side movement and the centerline
Lateral fields of engagement define the side-to-side movement between opponents in a fight, including left-to-right, right-to-left, and lateral positioning.
This unique approach to understanding the dynamics of movement and positioning in the Time-distance Theater opens up a new perspective on strategic engagement in combat.
Understanding the structure of lateral fields can aid in martial arts technique efficiency.
Lateral fields allow for a more nuanced awareness of the force relationship between actors, enhanced potential for application of tactics, and expanded opportunities for effective engagement and targeting.
This article delves into lateral fields of engagement, their impact on width zones of targeting, and the phenomenon of firing line drift.
Lateral Fields
Lateral fields are a unique concept in the Time-distance Theater. Unlike accordial fields, which focus on distance, lateral fields are angularly focused. They are based on centerline principles.
Lateral fields of movement slide left and right using lateral footwork, whereas accordial fields move in and out using penetration and clearing footwork.
The lateral fields apply to the dimension of width.
Accordial fields apply to the dimension of depth.
Formally defined, lateral fields are a method of gauging the side-to-side relationship between actors in the Time-distance Theater.
Three Lateral Fields of Engagement
In the Time-distance Theater, there are three lateral fields of engagement:
- Center
- Outside
- Inside
The following diagram illustrates the three lateral fields of engagement with the initiation actor in the center lateral field.
The structure of lateral fields allows for a more organized and measurable approach to targeting, making it a critical aspect of strategic engagement in the Time-distance Theater.
Impact on Width Zones of Targeting
Lateral fields have a direct impact on the width zones of targeting.
Width zones of targeting work like a Venetian blind, expanding, and collapsing based on relative positioning between actors.
Movement across lateral fields controls the Venetian blind effect.
The inside lateral field affords more targeting opportunities, while the outside lateral field offers better defensive options.
The receiving actor establishes the fields and lines, while the initiation actor works within them.
The dynamic interplay between the actors creates a complex and fluid battlefield where understanding and mastering the pros and cons of each lateral field can provide a significant advantage.
The inside and outside lateral fields open up different target areas.
On one hand, the inside lateral field opens the center targets such as the groin, eyes, solar plexus, and so on.
On the other hand, the outside lateral field opens the flank targets such as kidneys, thighs, back of the neck, and so forth.
Furthermore, the center field affords principles such as “defang the snake” to be applied.
Defang the snake is derived from Philippine martial arts and means destroying a person’s tools (kick, punch, etc.) rather than their body.
Understanding these fields and how to navigate them can significantly enhance an actor’s strategic engagement and targeting capabilities.
Firing Line Drift
The concept of firing line drift is another critical aspect of lateral fields of engagement. It occurs when moving laterally from center to off-center.
The firing line is the trajectory in which an opponent’s force, movement, or firepower travels.
Recall the receiving actor establishes the fields and lines while the initiation actor works within them.
Firing line drift can create opportunities for strategic engagement and targeting.
The following diagram illustrates firing line drift with the initiation actor assuming an angular force alignment to the receiving actor.
The initiation actor is occupying the inside lateral field.
This next diagram illustrates an initiation actor using an angular firing line drift to occupy the outside lateral field.
When an actor moves from the center lateral field to the outside lateral field, this is often called “zoning to zero pressure.”
The outside lateral field provides a more robust defense than the inside engagement field due to tool reduction.
The inside field provides a more robust offense with more targeting opportunities.
Firing line drift can be a significant difference maker in the Time-distance Theater.
This dynamic movement can open new targets, create defensive advantages, and disrupt the opponent’s strategy.
However, firing line drift also requires precise control and understanding of movement, making it a more sophisticated and rewarding aspect of martial arts training.
Conclusion
Understanding lateral fields becomes paramount when applying strategic force exertion across the width dimension.
Lateral fields allow for effective engagement and targeting in the Time-distance Theater.
They offer a unique perspective on movement dynamics and positioning, opening up new strategic engagement and targeting opportunities.
By mastering the concepts of lateral fields, actors can significantly enhance their performance in the Time-distance Theater.
For a more in-depth exploration of the lateral fields of engagement, please see Strategic Engagement of Force, a Field Guide for the use of Martial Arts Strategy and Tactics.
Also, check out the video, Master the Tactics of Lateral Movement: Gaining the Advantage on Your Opponent:
On X:
https://x.com/force_strategic/status/1774474307021770851
About Scott Gehring
Scott Gehring is a Senior Combat Instructor in the Art Contemporary of Jeet Kune Do, a 5th Degree Blackbelt in Kenpo Karate, and an expert in multiple mixed martial arts, including Jujitsu, Kali, and Wing Chun.
Check out the following resources to learn more about Scott:
About — Scott Gehring — Medium
They Get Their Kicks — YouTube
TheyGetTheirKicks (@GetTheirKicks) / X (twitter.com)
Strategic Engagement of Force (@force_strategic) / X (twitter.com)
