Institute of Modern Personal Combat Tactics & Training

PRESENTS

REACTIONARY
DEFENSIVE
METHODS

Study Manual for the

Elite Fighter System of Modern Combat
 Copyright © 2003 by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com

Names of Practice Combat Scenarios Copyright © 2003 by Kevin Lamkin

No part of this work may be reproduced by any mechanical, photographic, magnetic, or

electronic process or otherwise copied for public or private use without prior written
permission of the author.

Printed in the United States of America

 REACTIONARY DEFENSIVE METHODS

The strength of any fighting system rests on its conditioned responses. This is because a
conditioned response, requiring no hesitation for thought, takes less execution time than a
choice response. By programming the body to react to combat stimuli with efficient
responses, the fighting art dramatically increases the likelihood of success in combat.
Reactionary Defensive Methods train the student in conditioned responses that are flexible
and adaptable to be used against a variety of offensive situations. Reactionary Defensive
Methods are divided into five sections. These sections fully analyze attacks to provide a
comprehensive and understandable view in an organized and systematic structure.
Defenses, called Practice Combat Scenarios (PCS’s), are organized within this structure
according to a particular attack. Root Techniques and Harmonic Groups simplify the
student’s understanding of PCS’s by illustrating their relationships and interconnectivity of
motion.

ORGANIZ ATION OF REACTIONARY DEFENSIVE METHODS

Reactionary Defensive Methods are divided according to the following five areas of study:

1. Grappling
2. Striking
3. Multiple Attacks
4. Offensive-Defense
5. Specialized Studies

Grappling
Grappling is defined as any attack that makes direct contact with the defender. These
attacks include:

1. Tackles
2. Wrist Grabs
3. Shoulder/Lapel Grabs
4. Hair Grabs
5. Hand Holds
6. Full Nelson Holds
7. Bear Hugs
8. Chokes
9. Hammerlocks
10. Headlocks

Striking
Striking is defined as any attack made prior to contact with the defender. These attacks
include:

1. Pushes
2. Punches
3. Kicks
4. Weapons

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com 1

The weapons study includes modern weapons such as:

1. Sticks (Blunt Instruments)

2. Knives (Edged Weapons)
3. Handguns (Firearms)

Multiple Attacks
A Multiple Attack is defined as multiple attacks by a single opponent or single attacks by
multiple opponents. This study is designed to act as a transition from the structured, pre-
planned defenses of the Reactionary Defensive Methods to the unpredictability of
combat utilizing Strategic Offensive Methods.

Offensive -Defense
The Offensive-Defense Study introduces the student to the concept of using offensive
actions in a defensive manner. This division is comprised of:

1. Reactionary Offensive-Defense Methods

2. Pre-Emptive Attack Elements

Reactionary Offensive-Defense Methods are methods that eliminate the Neutralization

and proceed immediately to a Counter-Strike. This often occurs as the result of a successful
attack by the opponent.

Pre-Emptive Attack Elements are sequences derived from the Counter-Strike and Follow-
Up sections of Practice Combat Scenarios. These actions are often used to prevent an
assault by the opponent before his attack is fully developed.

Like the Multiple Attack Division, the Offensive-Defense Division acts as a transition to
Strategic Offensive Methods.

Specialized Studies
The Specialized Studies explore unusual and unique situations you may one-day face. It is
designed to inspire exploration and experimentation. The topics of study include:

1. One-Arm Defense—Situations in which only one hand is able to defend and

attack.
2. No-Arm Defense—Situations in which neither hand is able to defend or attack.
3. Restrictive Space—Situations in which your mobility is severely restricted due to
spatial limitations.
4. Protecting Others—Situations in which you must come to the aid of a victim.

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 METHODOLOGY OF ATTACK ANALYSIS

One of the chief aims of Reactionary Defensive Methods is to understand the nature and
purpose of an attack. By understanding the nature of a particular attack and its many
associated variables, you will have the necessary background information to develop your
own defense. This is accomplished by Attack Analysis. There are five steps of Attack
Analysis:

1. Determine the Purpose of the Attack.

2. Determine the Necessary Components Needed to Successfully Carry Out the
Attack.
3. Identify and Define all the Variables of the Attack.
4. Define all Possibilities of the Attack.
5. Determine the Probability and Practicality of these Possibilities.

EXAMPLE OF AN ATTACK ANALYSIS

ATTACK—Wrist Grab

Step 1—Determine the Purpose of the Attack.

After analyzing the attack, we determine that the purpose of a wrist grab is three-fold. The
first purpose is to prevent the offensive and defensive capabilities of the Target. The
second is to control the mobility of the Target, and the third is to prepare him for joint
manipulation.

Step 2—Determine the Necessary Components.

In order to successfully carry out the purpose of a Wrist Grab Attack, there are three
essential elements:

1. Maintain a firm hold on the Target’s wrist.

2. Control the movement of the Target’s arm.
3. Control the mobility of the Target’s body.

Step 3—Identify and Define all the Variables of the Attack.

Part A
We begin by determining the direction of the attack. There are three possible directions for
this type of an attack:

1. Front
2. Side
3. Rear

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com 3

Part B
Next, we determine the number of wrists and grabbing hands that will be involved in the
attack. Since both the opponent and the defender has two arms, the total number of
variables is four:

1. Single grab to one wrist.

2. Double grabs to one wrist.
3. Single grab to two wrists.
4. Double grabs to two wrists.

Part C
We now determine the variables of the grabbing hand. There are two possibilities—Regular
Grip and Irregular Grip.

1. Regular Grip—the hand is grabbing in a natural position with the thumb in an

upward position.
2. Irregular Grip—the hand is grabbing in an unnatural position with the thumb in a
downward position.

Part D
Next, we identify the positions of the Target arm. There are two possibilities:

1. Upward
2. Downward

Part E
Finally, we examine the number of possibilities of interaction between the opponent’s grab
and the defender’s arm. There are two:

1. Direct—the grab is applied to the arm directly in front of the other and does not
cross the Self-Centerline.
2. Cross—the grab is applied to the arm across the body, crossing the Self-
Centerline.

Step 4—Define all Possibilities of the Attack

We now combine all the variables and organize them in a logical pattern to determine all
the possibilities of attack.

I. Wrist Grabs
1. Front
a. Single to Single
i. Regular Grip
1. Arm Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arm Up
a. Direct
b. Cross

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 ii. Irregular Grip
1. Arm Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arm Up
a. Direct
b. Cross
b. Double to Single
i. Regular Grip
1. Arm Down
a. Direct-Cross Comb.
2. Arm Up
a. Direct-Cross Comb.
ii. Irregular Grip
1. Arm Down
a. Direct-Cross Comb.
2. Arm Up
a. Direct-Cross Comb.
c. Single to Double
i. Regular Grip
1. Arms Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arms Up
a. Direct
b. Cross
ii. Irregular Grip
1. Arms Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arms Up
a. Direct
b. Cross
d. Double to Double
i. Regular Grip
1. Arms Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arms Up
a. Direct
b. Cross
ii. Irregular Grip
1. Arms Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arms Up
a. Direct
b. Cross

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 2. Side
a. Single to Single
i. Regular Grip
1. Arm Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arm Up
a. Direct
b. Cross
ii. Irregular Grip
1. Arm Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arm Up
a. Direct
b. Cross
b. Double to Single
i. Regular Grip
1. Arm Down
a. Direct-Cross Comb.
2. Arm Up
a. Direct-Cross Comb.
ii. Irregular Grip
1. Arm Down
a. Direct-Cross Comb.
2. Arm Up
a. Direct-Cross Comb.
c. Single to Double
i. Regular Grip
1. Arms Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arms Up
a. Direct
b. Cross
ii. Irregular Grip
1. Arms Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arms Up
a. Direct
b. Cross
d. Double to Double
i. Regular Grip
1. Arms Down
a. Direct-Cross Comb.
2. Arms Up
a. Direct
b. Cross

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 ii. Irregular Grip
1. Arms Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arms Up
a. Direct
b. Cross

3. Rear
a. Single to Single
i. Regular Grip
1. Arm Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arm Up
a. Direct
b. Cross
ii. Irregular Grip
1. Arm Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arm Up
a. Direct
b. Cross
b. Double to Single
i. Regular Grip
1. Arm Down
a. Direct-Cross Comb.
2. Arm Up
a. Direct-Cross Comb.
ii. Irregular Grip
1. Arm Down
a. Direct-Cross Comb.
2. Arm Up
a. Direct-Cross Comb.
c. Single to Double
i. Regular Grip
1. Arms Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arms Up
a. Direct
b. Cross
ii. Irregular Grip
1. Arms Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arms Up
a. Direct
b. Cross

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 d. Double to Double
i. Regular Grip
1. Arms Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arms Up
a. Direct
b. Cross
ii. Irregular Grip
1. Arms Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arms Up
a. Direct
b. Cross

Step 5—Determine the Probability and Practicality of these Possibilities.

Now that we have identified all possibilities of the attack, we must eliminate any
redundancies that will inhibit and complicate our training. In addition, we must further
analyze our information and determine those positions that are likely to occur in combat,
those that are unlikely to occur, and those that are physically impossible. By understanding
the nature of an attack and its necessary components, you can easily identify variables as
impossible, “unlikely to occur”, or “tactically impractical”. This si essential in your study
because it will eliminate unnecessary variables that will distract and hinder your training
rather than focus and develop your defensive skills. Remember, just because something is
possible does not necessarily mean that it will or can occur .

“Unlikely to Occur”
A variable that is identified as “unlikely to occur” is a method that is capable of being
applied, but it is unlikely to occur in a combat situation because it is either mechanically
difficult to apply or its application poses a greater risk to the user than the defender. An
example can be found in the Double Rear Cross Shoulder/Lapel Grab variable. It is
possible that someone may grab in this manner, but it is highly unlikely.

“Tactically Impractical”
A variable that is identified as “tactically impractical” is a method of defense that poses a
greater risk to the defender than that of the opponent. An example can be found the in
Single Front Cross Shoulder/Lapel Grab variable. You can easily defend on the outside of
the arm, but if you attempt to defend on the inside, you will pass the opponent’s weapon
across your Self-Centerline and invoke a renewed attack.

Note: On the following pages, we will examine the organizational outline of all possibilities and determine those
that are essential to retain for our study. The variables that will be retained are indicated in bold face type. The
column on the right explains the reasons for determining the probability and/or practicality.

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com 8

I. Wrist Grabs • All Front Single to Single
1. Front variables are possible
a. Single to Single and are likely to occur.
i. Regular Grip
1. Arm Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arm Up
a. Direct
b. Cross
ii. Irregular Grip
1. Arm Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arm Up
a. Direct
b. Cross
b. Double to Single • All Front Double to
i. Regular Grip Double variables are
1. Arm Down possible and are likely to
a. Direct-Cross Comb. occur EXCEPT the
2. Arm Up Irregular Grip Arm Up
a. Direct-Cross Comb. variable; it is
ii. Irregular Grip mechanically possible,
1. Arm Down but it is unlikely to occur.
a. Direct-Cross Comb.
2. Arm Up (Unlikely to Occur)
a. Direct-Cross Comb.
c. Single to Double • A single hand grabbing
i. Regular Grip two wrists is highly
1. Arms Down unlikely. It is mechanically
a. Direct difficult, if not impossible,
b. Cross and serves no tactical
2. Arms Up purpose.
a. Direct
b. Cross
ii. Irregular Grip
1. Arms Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arms Up
a. Direct
b. Cross

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com 9

 d. Double to Double • All Front Double to
i. Regular Grip Double variables are
1. Arms Down possible and are likely to
a. Direct occur EXCEPT the
b. Cross Irregular Grip Arms Up; it
2. Arms Up is mechanically possible,
a. Direct but it is unlikely to occur.
b. Cross
ii. Irregular Grip
1. Arms Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arms Up (Unlikely to Occur)
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Side • Although a wrist grab
a. Single to Single from the side is possible,
i. Regular Grip all variables for Side Wrist
1. Arm Down Grabs are eliminated.
a. Direct There are two reasons:
b. Cross
2. Arm Up 1) A single step will place
a. Direct you in the same position
b. Cross as an attack from the
ii. Irregular Grip front. Since this is a
1. Arm Down minor adjustment, it is
a. Direct redundant training.
b. Cross 2) Wrist grabs from the
2. Arm Up side are studied in the
a. Direct Multiple Attacks
b. Cross Division. Retaining them
b. Double to Single will be redundant
i. Regular Grip training.
1. Arm Down
a. Direct-Cross Comb.
2. Arm Up
a. Direct-Cross Comb.
ii. Irregular Grip
1. Arm Dow n
a. Direct-Cross Comb.
2. Arm Up
a. Direct-Cross Comb.
c. Single to Double
i. Regular Grip
1. Arms Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arms Up
a. Direct
b. Cross

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com 10

 ii. Irregular Grip
1. Arms Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arms Up
a. Direct
b. Cross
d. Double to Double
i. Regular Grip
1. Arms Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arms Up
a. Direct
b. Cross
ii. Irregular Grip
1. Arms Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arms Up
a. Direct
b. Cross

3. Rear
a. Single to Single • All Rear Single to Single,
i. Regular Grip Double to Single, and
1. Arm Down Single to Double wrist
a. Direct grab variables are
b. Cross eliminated since a single
2. Arm Up step will place you in the
a. Direct same position as an
b. Cross attack from the front. To
ii. Irregular Grip avoid redundancy all
1. Arm Down these variables (and their
a. Direct associated variables) are
b. Cross eliminated.
2. Arm Up
a. Direct
b. Cross
b. Double to Single
i. Regular Grip
1. Arm Down
a. Direct-Cross Comb.
2. Arm Up
a. Direct-Cross Comb.
ii. Irregular Grip
1. Arm Down
a. Direct-Cross Comb.
2. Arm Up
a. Direct-Cross Comb.

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 c. Single to Double
i. Regular Grip
1. Arms Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arms Up
a. Direct
b. Cross
ii. Irregular Grip
1. Arms Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arms Up
a. Direct
b. Cross
d. Double to Double • All Rear Double to Double
i. Regular Grip variables are possible
1. Arms Down and are likely to occur
a. Direct EXCEPT:
b. Cross (Unlikely to
Occur) 1) Cross Grabs—This is
2. Arms Up possible but unlikely to
a. Direct occur.
b. Cross 2) Arms Up—It is possible,
ii. Irregular Grip (Possible) but these are
1. Arms Down hammerlock methods
a. Direct and not wrist grab
b. Cross methods.
2. Arms Up
a. Direct
b. Cross

Note: On the following page is the complete and corrected organizational outline following the proper
methodology of attack analysis.

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 Complete Attack Analysis Organizational Outline
WRIST GRABS
I. Wrist Grabs
1. Front
a. Single to Single
i. Regular Grip
1. Arm Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arm Up
a. Direct
b. Cross
ii. Irregular Grip
1. Arm Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arm Up
a. Direct
b. Cross
b. Double to Single
i. Regular Grip
1. Arm Down
a. Direct-Cross Comb.
2. Arm Up
a. Direct-Cross Comb.
ii. Irregular Grip
1. Arm Down
a. Direct-Cross Comb.
2. Arm Up (Unlikely to Occur)
c. Double to Double
i. Regular Grip
1. Arms Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arms Up
a. Direct
b. Cross
ii. Irregular Grip
1. Arms Down
a. Direct
b. Cross
2. Arms Up (Unlikely to Occur)
2. Rear
a. Double to Double
i. Regular Grip
1. Arms Down
a. Direct
ii. Irregular Grip
1. Arms Down
a. Direct

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com 13

 PRACTICE COMBAT SCENARIOS

Reactionary Defensive Methods combine rudimental striking methods with modern

combat theory for the purpose of developing instinctive responses. This is accomplished by
training the student in Practice Combat Scenarios. Practice Combat Scenarios analyze
various attacks and illustrate properly constructed defenses. A properly constructed
defense is comprised of four elements—Neutralization, Counter-Strike, Follow-Up, and Exit.

Neutralization—This is the most crucial part of any defense. The Neutralization of the attack
is determined by the opponent’s offensive actions and the nearest, most effective
defense. This may entail an escape or a reversal in the case of a grappling attack or a
deflection or an evasion in the case of a striking attack. After the Neutralization, your next
choice of action is based upon the positional relationship between your nearest, most
effective weapon to the nearest, most effective target.

Counter-Strike—Counter-Strikes are single or multiple strikes occurring after or simultaneous

with the Neutralization for the purpose of preventing a renewed attack by the opponent.
Regardless of how skilled you may be in blocking or escaping, the more opportunities the
opponent has to strike, the greater the probability his attack will be successful. In addition
to preventing renewed attacks, Counter-Strikes enable one to turn the tables and gain the
psychological advantage. A Counter-Strike alone will not win the battle. The opponent
must be incapacitated in order to establish a means of escape.

Follow-Up Strikes—Follow-Up Strikes are punishing blows designed to control and

incapacitate the opponent in order to safely exit the confrontation. The type, number, and
degree of Follow -Up Strikes are determined by the threat the opponent poses, the degree
of control you have over the opponent, and if a safe escape is possible.

Exit—Once the opponent has been controlled and safety is ensured, the defender is now
able to exit the area. Once away, there may be civil and moral responsibilities incurred by
the defender. Although not explicitly described in the PCS’s, most Exits are executed by
means of a Single or Double Coverout. For more information on Coverouts, refer to
Strategic Offensive Methods—The Arsenal of Natural Offensive Weaponry.

Note: On the following page is an example of a PCS. The column on the right indicates the four necessary
elements of a defense—Neutralization, Counter-Strike, Follow-Up, and Exit.

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 The Four Necessary Components
of Practice Combat Scenarios

CIRCLING RAM
ATTACK
The opponent pushes with both hands to your shoulders.

DEFENSE
S1. Step toward 6:00 with your left foot and form a right Neutralization
neutral bow stance as you deliver a right inward block to
clear the opponent’s arms.

S2. Pivot CW and form a right forward bow stance as you Counter-Strike
deliver a left vertical thrust punch to his sternum as your
right arm covers low.

S3. Pivot CCW and form a right neutral bow stance as you Follow-Up
deliver a right inward horizontal hooking punch to the op-
ponent’s jaw.

S4. Continue to pivot CCW and form a right reverse soft

bow stance as you deliver a right rear hammerfist strike to
the opponent’s groin.

S5. Finish with a right back kick to any available target. Exit

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com 15

 THE INTERCONNECTIVITY OF MOTION

Many Martial Arts schools attempt to teach students a defense for every type of attack.
But combat is a changing and unpredictable environment; it is impossible to know in
advance what the attack will be and when it will occur. There are some schools that
acknowledge this problem and attempt to solve it by instructing the students to choose a
handful of techniques and adapt them for use in multiple situations. Unfortunately for the
students, these schools do not provide the correct instruction and training, nor do they
realize that numerous techniques have a negative effect on Reaction Time. These students
are left with nothing except the illusion of skill and the fantasy of martial arts.

CHOICES AND REACTION TIME

Most martial artists fail to understand that the more choices you are given the longer it will
take you to react and respond to the attack. A researcher in the 1950’s (Hick) found that
“as the number of response option (techniques) increases from one to two, Reaction Time
increases by 58%.” This later led to the development of what is now known as Hick’s Law of
Reaction/Response Time. This law states “Reaction Time increases significantly when one
must decide which response or technique is most appropriate for the threat.” For example,
in 1993 a researcher (Ferrara) tested Hick’s Law and found that the Reaction Time of a
single block to a punch was .183 milliseconds. When four different blocks were given as
options, the Reaction Time increased to .481 milliseconds. The more choices you have to
counter a threat, the longer it takes you to respond. Most Martial Art schools have at least
30 defenses against a punch. If Hick found that going from one to two choices increases
Reaction Time by 58%, imagine what happens when you have 30 or more choices!

PRACTICE COMBAT SCENARIOS

The IMPCTT designed the Elite Fighter System of Modern Combat to train the student for
the reality of street combat by combining scientific research and the most advanced
tactics of modern combat. One part of the student’s overall training is learning to respond
instinctively and to successfully defend against an unexpected attack. This is
accomplished in the Reactionary Defensive Methods by training the student in Practice
Combat Scenarios (PCS’s). Practice Combat Scenarios are designed to:

1. Analyze common attacks and illustrate properly constructed defenses.

2. Introduce and apply principles of combat.
3. Train the body to respond instinctively to unexpected attacks.
4. Develop total body coordination.
5. Integrate components for skill evaluation.

Practice Combat Scenarios are based upon the concepts of Root Techniques and
Harmonic Groups. These two methods simplify one’s choice of defense and improve
reaction time during the normal stressors of a combat situation.

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com 16

ROOT TECHNIQUES
There are 24 Root Techniques specifically designed to give the student a foundation upon
which he will be able to instinctively adapt the PCS’s and defend against any attack. The
24 Root Techniques are:

The 24 Root Techniques

1. DOMINATING LEVER
2. THRUSTING SPEAR
3. PUMMELING SWORD
4. HUGGING ELBOWS
5. ATTACKING CRANE
6. HIDDEN ESCAPE
7. CIRCLING VIPER
8. CLASHING FISTS
9. CRASHING RAM
10. DESCENDING VENGEANCE
11. STRIKING SHIELD
12. THE GRIFFIN
13. ALTERNATING BLADES
14. SLICING MACE
15. BATTLING HAMMERS
16. THE SLEEPING GIANT
17. EVADING SCISSORS
18. ADVANCING FAN
19. SPIRALING WINDMILL
20. INTERCEPTING TALON
21. LUNAR ECLIPSE
22. REPEATING SPURS
23. RETURNING SICKLE
24. TWISTING HOOVES

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These 24 Root Techniques are divided into two classifications thereby further simplifying the
decision-making process and freeing the mind of an excessive number of choices:

Classification of Root Techniques

I. Alternating
A. ATTACKING CRANE
B. HIDDEN ESCAPE
C. CLASHING FISTS
D. CRASHING RAM
E. DESCENDING VENGEANCE
F. THE GRIFFIN
G. ALTERNATING BLADES
H. BATTLING HAMMERS
I. THE SLEEPING GIANT
J. LUNAR ECLIPSE
K. REPEATING SPU RS
L. TWISTING HOOVES
M. SPIRALING WINDMILL

II. Consecutive
A. DOMINATING LEVER
B. THRUSTING SPEAR
C. PUMMELING SWORD
D. HUGGING ELBOWS
E. CIRCLING VIPER
F. STRIKING SHIELD
G. SLICING MACE
H. EVADING SCISSORS
I. ADVANCING FAN
J. INTERCEPTING TALON
K. RETURNING SICKLE

Harmonic Groups
A “Group” is a collection of PCS’s organized under a particular attack variable that
examines the multiple possibilities of defense. These defenses relate to one another
through a concept called “Harmonics”. This advanced and sophisticated form of training
decreases Reaction Time while significantly increasing one’s chance of success in combat.
There are 108 Harmonic Groups.

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com 18

 ROOT TECHNIQUES

TYPES OF ROOT TECHNIQUES

There are three types of Root Techniques—Prime Root Techniques, Secondary Root
Techniques, and Tertiary Root Techniques.

Prime Root Techniques

Prime Root Techniques (PRT’s) are 24 Practice Combat Scenarios that can be altered and
adapted to form a defense for any attack. PRT’s fall within one of two categories of
striking—Alternating and Consecutive. A defense is classified as Alternating if an arm or leg
delivers a strike and does not strike again until another arm or leg delivers a strike. An
Alternating sequence may be:

Right—Left—Right—Left
Arm—Leg—Arm—Leg
etc.

A defense is classified as Consecutive if an arm or leg delivers two or more strikes in

succession. These strikes are often delivered in a clockwise or counterclockwise circular
motion and may occur on a horizontal, vertical, or diagonal plane of motion. A
Consecutive striking sequence may be:

Right inward block—Right inward elbow strike—Right outward elbow strike

Left front snapping ball kick—Left inward crescent kick—Left thrusting knife-edge kick
etc.

Secondary Root Techniques

When a Prime Root Technique is altered or changed in any way to form a new defense for
an attack, the resulting defense is called a Secondary Root Technique (SRT). There are
various ways of modifying a PRT to form a new defense:

DIRECT MODIFICATION—This is the simplest method and the one commonly used by most
students. A Direct Modification occurs when the motions of a defense are modified to
answer a different attack or adapted for a new intent. There are two types of Direct
Modifications—Neutralization Modification and Motion Adaptation.

1. Neutralization Modification—This occurs when the Neutralization section of the defense

is altered to correctly respond to a new threat and the remainder of the defense is left
relatively untouched. For example:

DOMINATING LEVER (PRT) is modified to become CROSS OF PROTECTION (SRT)

2. Motion Adaptation—This occurs when the physical motions of a defense remain intact
but its application is altered. This is commonly seen when the motions of a striking
method are altered to become the motions of a grappling method. For example:

HUGGING ELBOWS (PRT) is adapted to become ENTWINED PYTHON (SRT)

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INDIRECT MODIFICATION—Indirect Modifications are more advanced methods of
modifying defense. There are three types of Indirect Modifications—Sequence Reversal,
Motion Alteration, and Thematic Adaptation.

1. Sequence Reversal—The sequence of strikes is reversed before it is applied against the

opponent. For example:

ATTACKING CRANE (PRT) is reversed to create CLASHING STORMS (SRT).

2. Motion Alteration—The plane of motion in which the strikes are delivered are moved to
another plane—horizontal strikes to vertical strikes, diagonal strikes to horizontal, etc. For
example:

HUGGING ELBOWS (PRT) is altered to create STRIKING VIPER (SRT).

3. Thematic Adaptation—The theme of the PRT is preserved while new movements are
created to respond to the threat. For example, if the theme of the PRT is “alternating
hand strikes with in-place stance pivots”, then the SRT may be based upon this theme
and new movements/strikes created. For example:

CRASHING RAM (PRT) is adapted to become SPINNING VENGEANCE (SRT).

Tertiary Root Techniques

Tertiary Root Techniques (TRT’s) are variations of Secondary Root Techniques or defenses
based upon SRT’s. These variations may be created in the same manner as SRT’s.

THE FORMULATION OF DEFENSES

Practice Combat Scenarios are not meant to be the final answers to a particular attack,
but the foundation upon which new responses may be developed. One method of
altering self-defense techniques, designed by Ed Parker, is known as the Formulation
Equation. This concept states that for any self-defense technique, or sequence of moves,
one can:

1. Prefix—Add a move or moves before it.

2. Suffix—Add a move or moves after it.
3. Insert—Add a move or moves within the sequence or add a move simultaneous
with another.
4. Re-arrange—Change the order of the sequence of moves.
5. Alter—Change the weapon, target, or both.
6. Adjust—Change the range, angle of execution, or both.
7. Regulate —Regulate the speed, force, or both. One may even regulate the
intent and speed of an action.
8. Delete —Exclude a move or moves within a sequence.

When practicing and designing self-defense techniques, do not make the mistake of most
Martial Artists and focus on the theoretical at the expense of actual training. These
“Armchair” Martial Artists compensate for their lack of ability with excessive debate and
frequent criticism. Remember, combat si a fluctuating and unpredictable environment.
Only through dedicated study and practice will one be successful.

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com 20

ORGANIZATIONAL OUTLINE
The following outline contains all the prescribed Practice Combat Scenarios and will aid
the student to understand the relationships between Prime, Secondary, and Tertiary Root
Techniques. The student is encouraged to use this outline for personal exploration and
study.

1. DOMINATING LEVER
1.1. THROWING THE LEVER
1.2. REVERSING LEVER
1.3. SPLITTING THE FORCES
1.4. SWINGING HINGES
1.5. FLOWING LOCKS
1.6. SQUATTING MONKEY
1.7. THE EXECUTIONER
1.8. PRANCING TIGER
1.9. DEATH THROW
1.10. REVERSING LOCK
1.11. THE PRETZEL
1.12. DARK SIDE OF THE MOON
1.13. SNAKE TRAP
1.14. INTERCEPTING THE FIST
1.15. FALLING STAR
1.16. FACE OF DANGER
1.17. CHAIN LIGHTNING
1.18. CROSS OF PROTECTION
1.19. RIDING THE STORM
1.20. IRON GATES
1.21. FLAMING ARROW
1.22. FLAME THROWER
1.23. FLAMES OF DARKNESS
1.24. FIRE WALKER
1.25. EXTINGUISHING THE FLAME
1.26. THE BARRICADE
1.27. ATTACKING CHARIOT
2. THRUSTING SPEAR
2.1. CASTING THE SPEAR
2.2. TWISTING SPEAR
2.3. TAMING THE MINOTAUR
2.4. LAIR OF THE PHOENIX
2.5. DARKNESS AWAITS
3. PUMMELING SWORD
3.1. TRACKING ELBOW
3.1.1. CLAWING TIGER
3.1.2. RAKING SPURS
3.1.3. STRIKING SCORPION
3.2. WINGS OF THE RAPTOR
3.3. ESCAPE FROM THE SCAFFOLD

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com 21

4. HUGGING ELBOWS
4.1. THE RETREAT
4.2. RETURNING TRIP
4.3. STRIKING VIPER
4.4. HARVEST SUN
4.4.1. THE WINGED SERPENT
4.4.2. REAPER’S GIFT
4.4.3. SWEEPING LION
4.4.4. LIGHTNING ROD
4.5. ENTWINED PYTHON
4.6. HIDDEN SPEAR
4.7. THE MATADOR
4.8. HIDDEN DAGGER
4.9. DEATH GRIP
4.9.1. TWISTING THE ROD
4.10. PARTING THE CLOUDS
4.11. CRASHING ANTLERS
4.12. RETRIEVING THE WEDGE
4.13. DRIVING THE WEDGE
4.14. CLASHING SWORDS
4.14.1. SACRIFICING THE RAM
4.14.2. THE CHOPPING BLOCK
4.15. CONTROLLED WING
4.16. TRIGGERED LEVER
4.17. ATTACK OF THE EAGLE
4.18. CRASHING EAGLE
4.19. CROSSWINDS
4.20. HARVEST WIND
4.21. THE UNICORN
4.22. MAN OF WAR
4.23. ADVANCING SCISSORS
4.24. TRAPPING HAMMERS
4.25. HIDDEN MACE
4.26. CONQUERING SPEAR
4.27. SWINGING GATES
4.28. UNIVERSAL SHIELD
4.29. FACE OF TRUTH
4.30. CHOPPING THE VINE
4.31. STRIPPING THE VINE
4.32. THE MONGOOSE
4.33. THE EAGLE AND THE VIPER
4.34. DEFANGING THE SNAKE
4.35. STAFF OF THE PROPHET
4.36. WHEEL OF FATE
4.37. CRASHING PHOENIX
4.38. FATE OF THE PHOENIX
4.39. WARRIOR’S STANCE
4.40. WARRIOR’S SHIELD
4.41. SINGLE SWORD
4.42. SEEKING THE PATH

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com 22

5. ATTACKING CRANE
5.1. CLASHING STORMS
5.2. DROPPING THE ANCHOR
5.3. HINGES OF DESTRUCTION
5.4. FLYING CRANE
5.5. THE COBRA AND THE CRANE
5.6. THE GUILLOTINE
5.7. ESCAPE OF THE PHOENIX
5.8. DRIVING SPEARS
5.9. HORNS OF A DILEMMA
5.10. CLEARING THE SMOKE
5.11. VICTOR’S DANCE
5.12. THE PREDATOR
5.13. HAMMER THROW
5.14. SLIPPING TALON
5.15. WARRIOR’S PRAYER
5.16. EYE OF THE STORM
5.17. UNSEEN FORCES
6. HIDDEN ESCAPE
6.1. THE ANCHOR
6.2. COVER OF DARKNESS
6.3. DOUBLE ESCAPE
6.4. DUAL ESCAPE
7. CIRCLING VIPER
7.1. REDIRECTING THE STORM
7.2. HIDDEN SERPENT
7.3. DEPARTING VIPER
7.4. WRENCHING SERPENT
7.5. RETURNING VIPER
7.6. STRIKING PYTHON
7.7. BIRD OF PREY
7.8. SNAPPING BRANCH
7.9. ENCIRCLING SERPENT
7.10. CAPTURING THE RAM
7.11. CAPTURING CIRCLES
7.12. COILING SERPENT
7.13. PASSING THE BATON
7.14. THE SERPENT AND THE TREE
7.15. TWO HEADED DRAGON
7.16. DRAGON’S TREASURE
8. CLASHING FISTS
8.1. ESCAPE FROM THE BEAR
8.2. TWIN EAGLES
8.3. SKINNING THE CAT

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com 23

9. CRASHING RAM
9.1. TRIPPING THE RAM
9.2. CLIPPING WING
9.3. SPEAR AND SWORD
9.4. TWIRLING SPEAR
9.5. SPINNING VENGEANCE
9.5.1. RETURNING PHANTOM
9.6. VANISHING TRAIL
9.7. FLASHING BLADES
9.8. CRUSHING TIGER
9.9. SWEEPING LEOPARD
9.10. CIRCLING RAM
9.11. METEOR STORM
9.12. BATTERING RAM
9.13. FIST OF IRON
9.14. RISING STORM
9.15. THE FALL OF MAN
9.16. WHEEL OF FORTUNE
9.17. DARTING RAMS
9.18. THE GUARDSMAN
9.19. SERPENT’S HEAD
9.20. RISING STORM
9.21. AIMING THE BOW
9.22. DEFLECTING SHIELD
9.23. SLIP KNOT
9.24. PATH OF THE COMET
9.25. RETURNING COMET
9.26. SPINNING WHEEL
9.27. DEFLECTING CROSS
9.28. CHOPPING THE BRANCH
9.29. ORBIT OF DOOM
9.30. ATTACK OF THE BULL
9.31. DUELING BLADES
9.32. ROLLING THUNDER
10. DESCENDING VENGEANCE
10.1. HIDDEN RETREAT
10.2. WAR HAMMER
10.3. DRAGON’S LAIR
10.4. DESCENDING LION
10.5. THOR’S HAMMER
10.6. ATTACK OF THE VAMPIRE
10.7. STRIKING MANTIS
10.8. THUNDERSTORM
10.9. SNAKING THE VINE
10.10. FLAMING SWORD
10.11. OPENING THE GATES

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com 24

11. STRIKING SHIELD
11.1. CIRCLE OF DESTRUCTION
11.2. TACTICAL RETREAT
11.3. THE STRAIGHT JACKET
11.4. DECEPTIVE BLADES
11.5. REPEATED LANCE
11.6. DOUBLE MACE
11.7. SEIZING THE SERPENT
11.8. FALLEN IDOLS
11.9. FLIGHT OF THE PHOENIX
11.10. SPEAR AND DAGGER
11.11. ADVANCING FORTRESS
11.12. ADVANCING LION
11.13. FACING THE LEOPARD
11.14. SHIELD OF IRON
12. THE GRIFFIN
12.1. THE RAPTOR
12.2. IRON PALMS
12.3. WAR DANCE
13. ALTERNATING BLADES
13.1. ALTERNATING WINDS
13.2. DISSOLVING TALON
13.3. DRAWING THE SWORD
13.4. BROKEN LEVER
13.5. SWORD AND DAGGER
13.6. DROPPING THE BLADE
13.7. ATTACK OF THE RAVEN
13.8. TWISTING THE BOW
13.9. SPEAR OF DESTINY
13.10. FLIGHT OF PEGASUS
13.11. CATCHING THE TIGER BY THE TAIL
13.12. LOCKED BLADES
13.13. SHARDS OF GLASS
13.14. SHI ELD OF FIRE
13.15. ADVANCING BLADES
13.16. CRASHING DRAGON
13.17. HINGES OF FATE
13.18. INTERCEPTING HANDS
13.19. RETREATING DRAGON
13.20. CLEARING THE VINE
13.21. CLOSING THE GATE
13.22. ADVANCING TIGER
13.23. THREADING THE NEEDLE
13.24. COVERING WINGS
13.25. DOUBLE DRAGON
13.26. TWO MAN WHIRLING WARRIOR*
13.27. DARK SWORD
13.28. SWORD OF HONOR
13.29. DANCE OF THE TIGER

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com 25

14. SLICING MACE
14.1. DRAGON’S WHIP
14.2. SLICING SCIMITAR
14.3. TWO MAN WHIRLING WARRIOR*
15. BATTLING HAMMERS
15.1. LIGHTNING BOLT
15.2. THUNDERBIRD
15.3. FOLLOWING BLADES
16. THE SLEEPING GIANT
16.1. TWISTER
17. EVADING SCISSORS
17.1. EAGLE’S ROOST
17.2. NIGHT HAWK
17.3. THE HARVEST
17.4. ORBITING THE SUN
17.5. DROPPING THE BATON
17.6. SHIELDING THE STORM
17.7. KNEEL OF SURRENDER
17.8. SLICING LEOPARD
18. ADVANCING FAN
18.1. SPINNING FANS
18.2. PROBE INTO DARKNESS
19. SPIRALING WINDMILL
19.1. WINDING LI MBS
19.2. CIRCLING HAWK
19.3. DOMINATING WINDMILL
19.4. HORNS OF THE BULL
19.5. THE SNAKE CHARMER
19.6. VIPER’S GRASP
19.6.1. THE CADUCEUS
19.7. WINDING HAMMERS
19.8. THE PHANTOM
19.8.1. SLIP INTO DARKNESS
19.9. WHIRLING TIGER
19.10. FANNING THE FLAMES
19.11. THE CATAPULT
19.12. THE GALLOWS
19.13. EVADING THE STAFF
19.14. REVERSING FANS
19.15. FALLING WINDMILLS
19.16. REVERSING WINDMILLS
20. INTERCEPTING TALON
20.1. RIDING THE STAFF
21. LUNAR ECLIPSE
21.1. SHADOW OF THE MOON
21.2. LUNAR TIDE
21.3. WHITE CRANE
21.4. ATTACKING BEAR
21.5. CLOUDS OF WAR

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com 26

 21.6. CRESCENT MOON
21.7. JAWS OF THE LEOPARD
21.8. SLASHING CLAWS
22. REPEATING SPURS
22.1. HANDS TO HEAVEN
22.2. HANDS OF FIRE
22.3. THE BEAR TRAP
22.4. FALLEN BRIDGE
22.5. BURNING THE BRIDGE
22.6. DOUBLE BRIDGE
22.7. DUAL DEFENSES
22.8. DUAL RETREAT
22.9. MONKEY TWIST
22.10. SLICING MONKEY
22.11. LASSO THE MOON
22.12. GRIPPING TIGER
22.13. HIDDEN PALM
22.14. TRAPPING THE CYCLONE
22.15. DOUBLE PRETZEL
22.16. TURNING THE TIDE
22.17. NEST OF VIPERS
22.18. RIDING THE WAVE
22.19. HOOKING TALONS
22.20. WARRIOR’S PRAISE
22.21. IRON MAIDEN
22.22. DANCE OF THE MATADOR
22.23. CAPTURING THE FLAME
22.24. BROKEN SHACKLES
22.25. STINGING SCORPION
22.26. WAR HORSE
22.27. TWO MAN STRIKING PYTHON
22.28. ROLLING MONKEY
22.29. EYES OF DARKNESS
22.29.1. ELEMENTAL FIRE
22.30. BREACHING THE WALL
23. RETURNING SICKLE
23.1. WINTER HARVEST
23.2. CLEARING THE PATH
23.3. DUST DEVIL
23.4. TRIPPING ON THE VINE
24. TWISTING HOOVES
24.1. DEFYING LEVER
24.2. RETURNING DRAGON
24.3. STRIKING COBRA

*This defense is composed of two separate Practice Combat Scenarios; therefore, it is related to two separate
Prime Root Techniques.

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com 27

 HARMONIC GROUPS

A Harmonic Group is a collection of PCS’s organized under a particular attack variable for
the purpose of examining and exposing the student to various defensive possibilities.
Group Harmonics simplify defensive actions by allowing the student to see the
interconnectivity of motion. This method demonstrates that one does not need to learn
250 defenses for 250 different attacks. One simply learns 24 defenses and adapts them to
fit any defensive need. This greatly reduces Reaction/Response Time and improves one’s
chance of success.

HARMONICS
The defenses within a Group relate to others within the same group (and other groups) by
the means of Harmonics. A Harmonic is based upon the Concept of Complimentary
Opposites. For example, if you defend with a CW circle, you can also defend with a CCW
circle. Examples of typical Harmonics are:

1. Range
Long
Intermediate
Range
Close
Grappling

2. Method of Execution
Grappling
Striking

3. Root Classification
Alternating
Consecutive

4. Motion
Linear
Circular
Horizontal
Diagonal
Vertical
Mirror

5. Arm Positions
Outside
Inside
Split

6. Height Zones
High
Middle
Low

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com 28

 7. Takedown Methods
Arc
Circle
Spiral

8. Location
Inside
Outside
Above
Below
Front
Back

9. Movement
Advance
Retreat
In-place

10. Defense/Control Method

1-Hand
2-Hand

11. Defensive Arm

Right
Left
Both

12. Direction
Inward
Outward
Upward
Downward
Forward
Backward
CW
CCW

13. Clock Angle

12:00
1:30
3:00
4:30
6:00
7:30
9:00
10:30
12:00

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com 29

CHARACTERISTICS OF G ROUPS
Some Harmonic Groups contain unique characteristics such as pairs of techniques and
singular techniques. These are known as Technique Pairs and Isolated Defenses.

Technique Pairs
Many Harmonic Groups contain technique “pairs”. If there is a pair of techniques one
often acts as a “back-up” or as a support to the other. Some pairs are not located within
the same Group but are split between two different Groups. This further enhances the
interconnectivity of Harmonic Groups and poses a challenging exercise for students to
discover the “missing pair”.

Isolated Defenses
Some Groups contain only one defense called “Isolated Defenses”. These defenses relate
to other groups through Harmonics and Root Techniques. The student is encouraged to
study these Isolated Defenses and discover their purpose and meaning.

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com 30

 HARMONICS
GROUP 1
Range

ALTERNATING WINDS Long

REDIRECTING
Middle
THE STORM
CLASHING STORMS Close
DROPPING
Grappling
THE ANCHOR

HARMONICS
GROUP 2
Direction Location

CASTING THE SPEAR Below

THROWING THE LEVER Above
CIRCLE OF
CCW Outside/Above
DESTRUCTION
WINDING LIMBS CW Outside/Below
REVERSING LEVER Outside
TWISTING SPEAR Inside

HARMONICS
GROUP 3
Method Location
DOMINATING LEVER Grappling Outside
DISSOLVING TALON Striking Inside

HARMONICS
GROUP 4
Method

TRIPPING THE RAM Striking

SPLITTING
Grappling
THE FORCES

HARMONICS
GROUP 5
Method Direction
HANDS TO HEAVEN Grappling Outward
HANDS OF FIRE Striking Inward
SWINGING HINGES Grappling CW
CIRCLING HAWK Striking CCW

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com

 HARMONICS
GROUP 6
Method Location Direction

HIDDEN SERPENT Grappling Back CW

DRAWING
Striking Front CCW
THE SWORD

HARMONICS
GROUP 7
Method Range
BROKEN LEVER Striking Intermediate
THE RETREAT Striking Middle
RETURNING TRIP Grappling Close
STRIKING VIPER Grappling Grappling

HARMONICS
GROUP 8
Method
SWORD
Striking
AND DAGGER
HARVEST SUN Grappling
TAMING
Grappling
THE MINOTAUR
THRUSTING SPEAR Striking

HARMONICS
GROUP 9
Direction Method
DROPPING
CW Grappling
THE BLADE
CLIPPING WING CCW Striking

HARMONICS
GROUP 10
Movement Direction Method
PUMMELING SWORD Advance
TRACKING ELBOW Retreat
ENTWINED PYTHON CW
DEPARTING VIPER CCW
ATTACK OF
Striking
THE RAVEN
WRENCHING SERPENT Grappling

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com

 HARMONICS
GROUP 11
Direction Method

HIDDEN RETREAT Forward Striking

RETURNING VIPER Backward Grappling

HARMONICS
GROUP 12
Method Range Direction Arm Positions

HIDDEN SPEAR Striking Intermediate

THE MATADOR Grappling Close
STRIKING PYTHON Grappling Grappling
WAR HAMMER Striking Outward
SPEAR AND SWORD Striking Inward
HUGGING ELBOWS Grappling Above
HIDDEN DAGGER Striking Split
HINGES OF Grappling Below
DESTRUCTION

HARMONICS
GROUP 13
Direction Method
TWIRLING SPEAR Backward Grappling
TACTICAL RETREAT Forward Striking

HARMONICS
GROUP 14
Method
DRAGON’S LAIR Striking
BIRD OF PREY Grappling

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com

 HARMONICS
GROUP 15
Method Location Direction

DEFYING LEVER Grappling Above

DEATH GRIP Grappling Inside
SNAPPING BRANCH Grappling Outside
REAPER’S GIFT Striking Below
TWISTING THE BOW Grappling CW
FLYING CRANE Striking Forward
ATTACKING CRANE Striking Backward
THE COBRA
Striking CCW
AND THE CRANE

HARMONICS
GROUP 16
Movement
RAKING SPURS Retreat
ENCIRCLING SERPENT In-Place
THE ANCHOR Advance

HARMONICS
GROUP 17
Location
ESCAPE
Front
FROM THE BEAR
THE GUILLOTINE Back

HARMONICS
GROUP 18
Method Root Classification
ESCAPE OF
Striking Alternating
THE PHOENIX
TWIN EAGLES Grappling Consecutive

HARMONICS
GROUP 19
Method Direction
HIDDEN ESCAPE Striking Backward
COVER OF DARKNESS Grappling Backward
THE BEAR TRAP Striking Forward
FLOWING LOCKS Grappling Forward
SQUATTING MONKEY Grappling Downward

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com

 HARMONICS
GROUP 20
Method Direction

CLAWING TIGER Striking Forward

DOUBLE ESCAPE Grappling Backward
STRIKING SCORPION Striking Upward
PRANCING TIGER Grappling Downward

HARMONICS
GROUP 21
Method
DOMINATING
Grappling
WINDMILL
HORNS OF THE BULL Striking
PARTING THE CLOUDS Grappling
FALLEN BRIDGE Grappling
DRIVING SPEARS Striking
DESCENDING LION Striking

HARMONICS
GROUP 22
Method Direction Movement
SPEAR OF DESTINY Striking Forward
FLIGHT OF PEGASUS Grappling Forward
BURNING THE BRIDGE Grappling Backward
DOUBLE BRIDGE Striking Backward
SPINNING
Grappling In-Place
VENGEANCE
VANISHING TRAIL Striking In-Place
DUAL DEFENSES Grappling Forward
DUAL RETREAT Striking Forward

HARMONICS
GROUP 23
Direction
SKINNING THE CAT Backward
DEATH THROW Forward

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com

 HARMONICS
GROUP 24
Method Location
CIRCLING VIPER Grappling Inside
REVERSING LOCK Grappling Outside
CATCHING THE
Striking Inside
TIGER BY THE TAIL

HARMONICS
GROUP 25
Method
WINTER HARVEST Grappling
LOCKED BLADES Striking

HARMONICS
GROUP 26
Method
THE STRAIGHT JACKET Striking
THE WINGED SERPENT Grappling

HARMONICS
GROUP 27
Method
HORNS OF DILEMMA Grappling
CRASHING ANTLERS Striking

HARMONICS
GROUP 28
Direction
THE EXECUTIONER Forward
CLASHING FISTS Backward
THE PRETZEL Downward

HARMONICS
GROUP 29
Method Root Classification Direction

FLASHING BLADES Striking Alternating Backward

RETRIEVING THE
Striking Consecutive Forward
WEDGE
DRIVING THE WEDGE Grappling Consecutive Forward
CLASHING SWORDS Grappling Consecutive Forward
MONKEY TWIST Grappling Alternating Backward
SLICING MONKEY Striking Alternating Backward

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com

 HARMONICS
GROUP 30
Method

LASSO THE MOON Striking

DARK SIDE
Grappling
OF THE MOON
SHADOW OF
Striking
THE MOON
LUNAR TIDE Grappling

HARMONICS
GROUP 31
Method Location

CONTROLLED WING Striking Inside

TRIGGERED LEVER Grappling Inside
CLEARING
Striking Outside
THE SMOKE
SNAKE TRAP Grappling Outside
CRUSHING TIGER Striking Inside/Above
SWEEPING LEOPARD Grappling Outside/Above

HARMONICS
GROUP 32
Method
CRASHING RAM Grappling
CIRCLING RAM Striking
THE SNAKE CHARMER Striking
VIPER’S GRASP Grappling

HARMONICS
GROUP 33
Direction

ATTACK OF
Backward
THE EAGLE
CRASHING EAGLE Forward

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com

 HARMONICS
GROUP 34
Method Direction
DESCENDING
VENGEANCE Grappling

STRIKING SHIELD Striking

GRIPPING TIGER Grappling
DECEPTIVE BLADES Striking
CAPTURING THE RAM CW
SACRIFICING
CCW
THE RAM
THOR’S HAMMER Striking
ATTACK OF
Grappling
THE VAMPIRE

HARMONICS
GROUP 35
Method Location

INTERCEPTING
Grappling Outside
THE FIST
HIDDEN PALM Striking Inside

HARMONICS
GROUP 36
Root Classification

CLEARING THE PATH Consecutive

STRIKING MANTIS Alternating
FALLING STAR Consecutive
METEOR STORM Alternating

HARMONICS
GROUP 37
Method

TWISTER Grappling
DUST DEVIL Striking

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com

 HARMONICS
GROUP 38
Method
THE GRIFFIN Grappling
EAGLE’S ROOST Striking
NIGHT HAWK Striking
CROSSWINDS Grappling
HARVEST WIND Grappling
THE RAPTOR Grappling

HARMONICS
GROUP 39
Method Root Classification Location

BATTERING RAM Striking Alternating Outside

THE HARVEST Grappling Consecutive Below
FIST OF IRON Grappling Alternating Inside

HARMONICS
GROUP 40
Method

RISING STORM Grappling

THUNDERSTORM Striking

HARMONICS
GROUP 41
Method Root Classification

SHARDS OF GLASS Striking Alternating

CAPTURING CIRCLES Grappling Consecutive

HARMONICS
GROUP 42
Method
ALTERNATING BLADES Striking
SHIELD OF FIRE Grappling
THE UNICORN Striking
LIGHTNING BOLT Grappling

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com

 HARMONICS
GROUP 43
Direction

DRAGON’S WHIP CCW

SLICING MACE CW

HARMONICS
GROUP 44
Takedown Methods

ORBITING THE SUN Arc

IRON PALMS Arc
MAN OF WAR Circle
THE FALL OF MAN Circle
WHEEL OF FORTUNE Spiral
DARTING RAMS Circle
REPEATED LANCE Arc
DOUBLE MACE Spiral

HARMONICS
GROUP 45
Method Motion

THE GUARDSMAN Striking Linear

THUNDERBIRD Grappling Circular

HARMONICS
GROUP 46
Height Zones
BATTLING HAMMERS Middle
VICTOR’S DANCE Low
THE SLEEPING GIANT High
THE PREDATOR Low

HARMONICS
GROUP 47
Method Location
EVADING SCISSORS Grappling Outside
ADVANCING
Striking Inside
SCISSORS

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com

 HARMONICS
GROUP 48
Movement

TRAPPING HAMMERS Backward

SERPENT’S HEAD In-Place
HAMMER THROW Forward

HARMONICS
GROUP 49
Method

RISING STORM Striking

COILING SERPENT Grappling
ADVANCING BLADES Striking
CRASHING DRAGON Grappling

HARMONICS
GROUP 50
Method

WINDING HAMMERS Striking

HIDDEN MACE Grappling
THE PHANTOM Striking
WHIRLING TIGER Grappling
WHITE CRANE Grappling
ATTACKING BEAR Striking
CLOUDS OF WAR Striking
FACE OF DANGER Grappling

HARMONICS
GROUP 51
Direction Method

AIMING THE BOW In-Place

RIDING THE STAFF Backward
CONQUERING SPEAR Forward
FOLLOWING BLADES Striking
THE
Grappling
CHOPPING BLOCK

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com

 HARMONICS
GROUP 52
Range

DEFLECTING SHIELD Middle

SLIP KNOT Grappling

HARMONICS
GROUP 53
Range

PATH OF THE COMET Middle

RETURNING COMET Grappling

HARMONICS
GROUP 54
Motion

SPINNING FANS Circular

ADVANCING FAN Horizontal
SPINNING WHEEL Vertical

HARMONICS
GROUP 55
Method Movement

FANNING THE FLAMES Striking Retreat

THE CATAPULT Grappling Retreat
SPIRALING WINDMILL Striking Advance
THE GALLOWS Grappling Advance

HARMONICS
GROUP 56
Method Root Classification
INTERCEPTING TALON Grappling Consecutive
SLIPPING TALON Striking Alternating
CRESCENT MOON Striking Alternating
LUNAR ECLIPSE Striking Alternating
JAWS OF
Grappling Consecutive
THE LEOPARD
SWINGING GATES Grappling Consecutive
SLASHING CLAWS Striking Alternating
HINGES OF FATE Striking Alternating

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com

 HARMONICS
GROUP 57
Method

ROLLING THUNDER Striking

CHAIN LIGHTNING Grappling

HARMONICS
GROUP 58
Motion

CLOSING THE GATE Vertical

ADVANCING TIGER Horizontal

HARMONICS
GROUP 59
Method

THREADING
Grappling
THE NEEDLE
INTERCEPTING HANDS Grappling
RETREATING
Striking
DRAGON

HARMONICS
GROUP 60
Direction

UNIVERSAL SHIELD CCW

TRAPPING
CCW/Forward
THE CYCLONE
DOUBLE PRETZEL CW
WARRIOR’S PRAYER Forward/CCW

HARMONICS
GROUP 61
Method

TURNING THE TIDE Grappling

FACE OF TRUTH Striking

HARMONICS
GROUP 62
Method

NEST OF VIPERS Grappling

RIDING THE WAVE Striking

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com

 HARMONICS
GROUP 63
Method
REPEATING SPURS Striking
HOOKING TALONS Grappling
DEFLECTING CROSS Striking
WARRIOR’S PRAISE Grappling

HARMONICS
GROUP 64
Method Direction
RETURNING SICKLE Grappling CW
TWISTING HOOVES Grappling CCW

HARMONICS
GROUP 65
Method

CLEARING THE VINE Striking

SEIZING THE SERPENT Grappling

HARMONICS
GROUP 66
Clock Angle

EVADING THE STAFF 10:30

SNAKING THE VINE 1:30
CHOPPING THE VINE 12:00

HARMONICS
GROUP 67
Direction

CROSS OF
Forward
PROTECTION
FALLEN IDOLS Backward

HARMONICS
GROUP 68
Control Method

PASSING THE BATON 1-Hand

DROPPING
2-Hand
THE BATON
TRIPPING ON
1-Hand
THE VINE
SWEEPING LION 2-Hand

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com

 HARMONICS
GROUP 69
Movement

THE SERPENT
Retreat
AND THE TREE
STRIPING THE VINE In-Place
EYE OF THE STORM Advance

HARMONICS
GROUP 70
Defensive Arm Root Classification

RIDING THE STORM Left Consecutive

SHIELDING
Right Consecutive
THE STORM

HARMONICS
GROUP 71
Motion Motion

PROBE INTO
Horizontal Circular
DARKNESS
CHOPPING
Vertical Linear
THE BRANCH

HARMONICS
GROUP 72

THE MONGOOSE Isolated Defense—See Root Technique

HARMONICS
GROUP 73
Control Method

ORBIT OF DOOM 1-Hand

LIGHTNING ROD 2-Hand

HARMONICS
GROUP 74
Motion Movement

THE EAGLE
CCW Retreat
AND THE VIPER
DEFANGING
CW Advance
THE SNAKE

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com

 HARMONICS
GROUP 75
Root Classification

IRON MAIDEN Alternating

IRON GATES Consecutive

HARMONICS
GROUP 76
Motion

DANCE OF THE
Linear
MATADOR
ATTACK OF THE BULL Circular

HARMONICS
GROUP 77
Root Classification Motion

STAFF OF
Consecutive Circular
THE PROPHET
DUELING BLADES Alternating Linear

HARMONICS
GROUP 78
Motion

CAPTURING
Circular
THE FLAME
TWISTING THE ROD Linear

HARMONICS
GROUP 79
Control Method

FLAMING ARROW 1-Hand

FLAME THROWER 2-Hand

HARMONICS
GROUP 80
Direction

FLAMES OF
Backward
DARKNESS
FIRE WALKER Forward

HARMONICS
GROUP 81

WHEEL OF FATE Isolated Defense—See Root Technique

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com

 HARMONICS
GROUP 82

EXTINGUISHING
Isolated Defense—See Root Technique
THE FLAME

HARMONICS
GROUP 83
Root Classification Movement Method
FLIGHT OF
Consecutive Advancing Striking
THE PHOENIX
LAIR OF THE PHOENIX Alternating Retreating Striking
CRASHING PHOENIX Alternating Advancing Grappling
FATE OF THE PHOENIX Consecutive Advancing Striking

HARMONICS
GROUP 84

DANCE OF THE TIGER Isolated Defense—See Root Technique

HARMONICS
GROUP 85
Method Root Classification
REVERSING FANS Striking Alternating
SPEAR AND DAGGER Grappling Consecutive

HARMONICS
GROUP 86
Method Root Classification
COVERING WINGS Striking Alternating
ADVANCING
Striking Consecutive
FORTRESS
FLAMING SWORD Striking Alternating
THE CADUCEUS Grappling Consecutive
ADVANCING LION Striking Consecutive
FACING
Striking Consecutive
THE LEOPARD
OPENING THE GATES Grappling Alternating
SHIELD OF IRON Striking Consecutive

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com 47

 HARMONICS
GROUP 87
Method Location
FALLING WINDMILLS Grappling Outside
REVERSING
Striking Inside
WINDMILLS

HARMONICS
GROUP 88

DOUBLE DRAGON Isolated Defense—See Root Technique

HARMONICS
GROUP 89

RETURNING DRAGON Isolated Defense—See Root Technique

HARMONICS
GROUP 90

WAR DANCE Isolated Defense—See Root Technique

HARMONICS
GROUP 91
Method
KNEEL OF SURRENDER Striking
SLICING LEOPARD Grappling

HARMONICS
GROUP 92
Defense Method
WARRIOR’S STANCE 2-Arm
WARRIOR’S SHIELD 1-Arm

HARMONICS
GROUP 93
Method
THE BARRICADE Grappling
BROKEN SHACKLES Striking

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com 48

 HARMONICS
GROUP 94
Method
WINGS OF
Striking
THE RAPTOR
TWO HEADED
Grappling
DRAGON
STINGING SCORPION Striking

HARMONICS
GROUP 95
Method
WAR HORSE Striking
SLICING SCIMITAR Grappling

HARMONICS
GROUP 96

TWO MAN
Isolated Defense—See Root Technique
STRIKING PYTHON

HARMONICS
GROUP 97

DUAL ESCAPE Isolated Defense—See Root Technique

HARMONICS
GROUP 98

ESCAPE FROM
Isolated Defense—See Root Technique
THE SCAFFOLD

HARMONICS
GROUP 99

SLIP INTO DARKNESS Isolated Defense—See Root Technique

HARMONICS
GROUP 100

TWO MAN
Isolated Defense—See Root Technique
WHIRLING WARRIOR

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com 49

 HARMONICS
GROUP 101
Method
STRIKING COBRA Striking
ROLLING MONKEY Grappling

HARMONICS
GROUP 102
Clock Angle
EYES OF DARKNESS 7:30
DARK SWORD 4:30

HARMONICS
GROUP 103

CLIPPING THE KNEE

ROMAN SALUTE
Pre-Emptive Attack Elements
RETURN FROM
THE BATTLEFIELD

HARMONICS
GROUP 104

KNEEL OF
COMPLIANCE
Pre-Emptive Attack Elements
DESCENT TO EARTH
SILENT DEATH

HARMONICS
GROUP 105
Direction
SINGLE SWORD Vertical
SEEKING THE PATH CCW
DRAGON’S TREASURE CW

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com 50

 HARMONICS
GROUP 106
Direction
RETURNING
CW
PHANTOM
ELEMENTAL FIRE CCW
UNSEEN FORCES Vertical

HARMONICS
GROUP 107
Root Classification Method
BREACHING
Alternating Striking
THE WALL
ATTACKING CHARIOT Consecutive Grappling

HARMONICS
GROUP 108
Method
SWORD OF HONOR Striking
DARKNESS AWAITS Grappling

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com 51

 EXAMPLE OF HARMONIC ANALYSIS

Method of Root Arm Height Tkdwn Defense Defense Clock

Name of Defense Range Motion Location Movement Direction
Execution Class. Positions Zones Methods Method Arm Angle
Outside Retreat &
HANDS TO HEAVEN Grapp. Grappling Alter. Linear Split High Circle 1-Hand Right Outward 12:00
& Below In-Place

Low & Inside & Retreat &

BEGGING HANDS Inter. Striking Alter Linear Inside X 2-Hand Both Inward 12:00
High Below Advance
DESPERATE
Grapp. Grappling Consec Circular Outside Middle X Outside Advance 2-Hand Both CW 12:00
FALCONS
CIRCLING HAWK Inter. Striking Alter. Circular Outside Middle X Outside Advance 2-Hand Both CCW 12:00

Balanced Harmonics ü ü ü ü ü

52
 Method of Root Arm Height Tkdwn Move- Defense Defense Clock
Name of Defense Range Motion Location Direction
Execution Class. Positions Zones Methods ment Method Arm Angle

Balanced Harmonics

53
 TRAINING METHODOLOGY OF
PRACTICE COMBAT SCENARIOS

1. Integrate the Motion

• Practice to develop the coordination and the correct application of the
rudimental offensive and defensive actions by practicing the defense on both
sides.
• Develop and apply speed and power to the PCS.
• Internalize the PCS to the point of spontaneity.

2. Question the Response

• Examine possible counters and unexpected variables.
• Train to develop spontaneous contingency plans to these counters and variables
while staying within the framework of the PCS.
• Train to develop spontaneous contingency plans to these counters and variables
while breaking away from the framework of the PCS.

3. Examine the Interconnectivity

• Examine the interconnectivity of the PCS to its Root Technique.
• Examine the interconnectivity of the PCS to other PCS’s within the same Harmonic
Group.
• Examine the interconnectivity of the PCS to PCS’s in other Harmonic Groups.

4. Explore the Possibilities

• Explore various alterations of the PCS utilizing the Formulation Equation.
• Explore other applications of the PCS.
• Explore other responses to the attack.

RDMs—Introduction Copyright by Eric Lamkin and Elite-Fighters.com 54