Diagonal Footwork (Cornering) (Patreon)

• LMA Curriculum

This is a demonstration of how to move diagonally. Regardless of whether you are going diagonally to the left or right, since you are going forward, you lead with your lead foot. If you're moving back, you lead with your rear foot. This is to maintain Position Zero throughout the movement.

You use this when an opponent is moving laterally or circling. Since you're moving diagonally, and your opponent is moving laterally, you are making a triangle together. Footwork, like everything else, is all about making shapes. Most often, circles, triangles, and squares.

Where you and your opponent meet is at the corner of the triangle. Once your opponent recognizes they are about to meet you at the corner of the triangle, they'll move the other way to avoid being "cornered." Then you'll have to move diagonally the other way as well. This will continue until the triangle gets smaller and smaller until your opponent is trapped against the ropes/cage (hopefully). This is the purpose of diagonal stepping/cornering and another example of the importance of shapes and sealing off opponents in sparring.

– Sam