An idiom describing a conceptual line that bisects the body through its height, width, or depth.

Inflected Form(s):

Centerlines (plural)

Comments:

The most common use of the term refers to the vertical line, bisecting the width of the body.

A Centerline is a plane which extends through the entire height and depth, or width and depth of the opponent.

The Centerline can be visualized from both in front of and in back of the opponent.

From a Defensive Point of View:

One should always try to keep their Centerline covered.

From an Offensive Point of View:

One should try to expose and take advantage of an opponent's Centerline (Seek the Centerline).

Facing directly toward an opponent's Centerline ensures maximum targets for you, and minimum balance and stability for them.

The practitioner should be careful not to create a Pass Line when moving a weapon across their centerline.

Related Definition(s):

Concept

Related Term(s):

Angle of Attack, Angle of Balance, Angle of Defense, Center of Gravity, Seek the Centerline