Redonda Salok-saboy – Reverse whirlwind
Also within the same family of sinawali (double weapon) methods as redonda (whirlwind), redonda salok-saboy (reverse whirlwind) is performed in the reverse motion of the parent redonda. As with the redonda pattern, the name suggest a highly destructive force that is produced by the rapid upward circular motion of redonda salok-saboy. The technique and name are derived from the fundamental technique, salok-saboy (upward X), redonda salok-saboy also provides fluidity and speed of motion. Often applied in a defensive mode, redonda salok-saboy can counter the actions of a redonda attack. The reverse whirlwind informs the intermediate de cuerdas (rebounding strikes) technique, as well as providing foundation actions for the more advanced luha redonda (teardrop thrusts with whirlwind) and luha salisi (criss-cross thrusts).
Structure and mechanics
Redonda salok-saboy includes three upward, diagonal circular strikes which utilise alternate weapons during the performance of the technique. While it is possible to commence redonda salok-saboy from an open stance to hide the intended strategy, it generally starts from a low parallel position with both weapons held on the same side and pointing to the rear. With a start from the right side of the body, the right stick is held in the abierta (open) position at hip height and the tip of the stick is pointing to the rear. The left stick is held in the serrada (closed) position above the right stick and also pointing to the rear. The first strike of redonda salok-saboy is performed using the bottom stick held in the abierta position. The strike travels inwards and diagonally upwards in a circular motion from hip height on the abierta side to shoulder height on the serrada side of the body, ending with the stick wrapped around the body and pointing to the rear. Hand alignment during the first strike is with the palm facing diagonally upwards towards the abierta side and the technique leads with the middle knuckles in a blade cutting action. The second strike is performed using the original top stick, which travels along the same line as the first strike and starts from hip height in the serrada position and strikes diagonally upwards in a circular motion through shoulder height to end pointing to the rear on the abierta side. The alignment of the hand during the second strike is with the palm of the hand facing diagonally downwards and the technique leads with the middle knuckles to simulate a blade action. The third and final strike uses the original bottom stick which is now in the serrada position. The strike travels diagonally upwards in a circular motion that travels from hip height on the serrada side towards shoulder height on the abierta side before return to finish above the opposite stick in a high serrada chamber with the tip of the stick pointing towards the rear. During the third motion of redonda salok-saboy, the hand is aligned with the palm facing diagonally downwards and with the technique leading with the middle knuckles.
Methods of development
The development of redonda salok-saboy requires considerable attention to detail because of the wrist alignment required to accurately achieve a blade oriented technique that can be readily and powerfully applied. This section will consider some individual and partner-based training methods that can be used to support the development of redonda salok-saboy. Solo training of redonda salok-saboy can make use of a mirror for accuracy of technique, the use of large diameter sticks to develop wrist and grip strength or heavy rope striking to develop impact power. The partner-based training methods that can support the development of redonda salok-saboy include the use of the same stick to develop flow and timing, applying redonda salok-saboy against redonda to develop a deeper understanding of countering methods and the use of redonda salok-saboy against individual strikes to enhance timing and accuracy.
The development of the correct structure and alignment when executing redonda salok-saboy is an essential attribute and should be the focus of much solo training. The first focus of solo training is to develop great accuracy and this is best achieved by slowly performing the motions in front of a mirror. It is important to monitor and correct the alignment of the middle knuckles during the execution of redonda salok-saboy, especially during the first strike where the wrist position may feel a little unnatural at first. The second solo training method to be applied to the development of redonda salok-saboy is the use of large diameter sticks. This training method can not only help to gradually improve wrist flexibility but also develop grip strength, which is an essential attribute in all weapons and empty-hand techniques.
