The 12 Angles of Attack Framework

The Inosanto Lacosta system organizes striking patterns into 12 distinct angles of attack, used as a foundational reference for striking drills across various Kali systems. The instructor begins from a fighting stance in on-guard ready position and systematically demonstrates each angle.

Angles 1-4: Diagonal and Horizontal Strikes

Angle one targets downward at 45 degrees, while angle two is a backhand strike at 45 degrees. Angles three and four are horizontal strikes across the body—forehand and backhand respectively—executed after stepping back to reset distance.

Angles 5-8: Thrusts and Redondo Patterns

Angle five is a thrust from hip chamber executed with a forward step. Angle six is an overhand thrust, while angle seven is a backhand redondo (circular motion) executed by letting the weapon fall and unwinding the hips. Angle eight is a reverse thrust performed during hip unwinding with a level change.

Angles 9-12: Lower Targets and Upward Cuts

Angles nine and ten target the thigh—one forehand, one backhand—after stepping back. Angles eleven and twelve are upward cutting motions directed at lower and upper targets respectively. The complete sequence resets stance positioning after every two angles.

Partner Dummy Training Application

Once the angles are memorized, practitioners perform partner drills with one partner standing stationary while the other marks target zones on the body. This dummy training builds familiarity with the anatomical targets for each angle: solar plexus, subclavian artery, collarbone, eyes, neck, and thighs.

Target-Specific Execution

Each angle maps to specific body targets: angles one and two to the head and upper body, angles three and four to the elbows or ribs, angle five to the solar plexus, angle six to the subclavian artery, angle seven to the head or collarbone, angle eight to the eyes or neck, and angles nine through twelve to the legs, body, or chin area.

Training Methodology and Pacing

Speed is not emphasized during these drills; practitioners are instructed to work deliberately and methodically to ensure proper angle execution and body awareness. The focus is on accuracy and comfort with the movements rather than rapid-fire strikes.

Inosanto Kali - 12 Angles of Attack

Sakan Lam

Angle Strike

2 min read·7 key moments·PT5M51S video

Key Takeaways

•The 12 Angles of Attack Framework
•Angles 1-4: Diagonal and Horizontal Strikes
•Angles 5-8: Thrusts and Redondo Patterns
•Angles 9-12: Lower Targets and Upward Cuts

Inosanto / Lacoste Kali 12 Angles of Attack 1. Diagonal Down 2. Diagonal Down 3. Horizontal Across 4. Horizontal Across 5. Straight Thrust 6. Overhand Thrust 7. Redondo (Circular Strike) 8. Sunkete (Reverse Thrust) 9. Diagonal Down - Low Line 10. Diagonal Down - Low Line 11. Diagonal Up 12. Diagonal Up If you'd like to learn more Filipino Martial Arts at home, check out my online course: https://members.corecombatchiangmaionline.com/courses/kali-online-way-of-the-weapon #kali #eskrima #arnis CORE COMBAT CHIANG MAI Martial Arts for Modern Warriors MARTIAL ARTS / FITNESS / MMA / SELF-DEFENSE / KIDS KICKBOXING / ED VISA Core Combat Chiang Mai, founded by Sakan Lam, is a self-defense and combative martial arts school, combining elements of Jeet Kune Do, Wing Chun, Kali (Filipino Martial Arts) and Indonesian Silat. We also provide combat sports training (Kickboxing & MMA) to improve overall fitness and help prepare athletes for competition. Whether your interest is to learn self-defense, compete, or lose weight, Core Combat Chiang Mai can help you achieve your goals with a perfect blend of martial arts, fitness and combatives training. We now offer Education Visas for long term stays in Thailand up to 12 months for anyone training under our Emergency Self-Defense program! Follow the link below for more info: https://www.corecombatchiangmai.com/education-visa/ Find us at our gym in Chiang Mai, Thailand! Check out our training packages and online training courses! See more here: ONLINE TRAINING COURSES: https://members.corecombatchiangmaionline.com/ WEBSITE: https://www.corecombatchiangmai.com/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/corecombatchiangmai/ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/corecombatcm/ YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/user/SakanLam

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about angle strike?

This video covers the 12 angles of attack framework, angles 1-4: diagonal and horizontal strikes, angles 5-8: thrusts and redondo patterns. It provides detailed instruction from Sakan Lam.

How long does it take to learn angle strike?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 7-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.