The C-Step

The c-step (as illustrated to the righ) is an important aspect of the foot work in Modern Arnis as well as many other martial arts.  As a quick maneuver it can help you avoid an incoming hit or object, and it can also help you quickly switch angles.  However, often times, I see this movement being executed incorrectly, mostly because students do not understand the full scope of the c-step. Yes, it is quick and can help you move around quickly but it also can help you sense your environment without having to look around.  Let’s first talk about how a few things regarding how to execute the c-step (this is not a guide to the c-step)

1. Your body should not move vertically.  Often I see students who straighten out their legs every time their feet meet and then lower themselves as they step.  The body should remain steady vertically as you step.
2. Only one foot should bear your weight when moving.  Sometimes people execute the c-step as if they are walking, transferring weight from one foot to the next.  Ideally, when the foot that is moving leaves the floor it should be lifted vertically staying parallel to the ground as it moves through the “c”.
3. Foot should not drag on the ground.  The foot should remain about a centimeter above the ground but should not touch the ground and it should not be angled. 

Now why are these steps important?  The reason these steps is because they help you move in an environment where the ground may not be as even and free of object as the mats in your school. 

Keeping your body level keeps the body in balance.  Try moving up and down as you’re doing the c-step and back into a bench or a chair or even someone kneeling over.  You will immediately sense the lack the balance. 

Only one foot bearing your weight keeps you stable.  Walk backwards into a wall and see how your body reacts.  Imagine that during a confrontation.  Now use the c-step.  You’ll notice that because it is a non-weight bearing heel that hits the wall, you are able to adjust accordingly.

Keeping your foot parallel to the ground keep you from stepping on things.  This is pretty straight forward.  Step on a stick and what happens? Your foot slips.  How walk into a stick using the c-step properly.  You push the stick out of the way or sense it rather than stepping on it.  Keeping it parallel to the ground also ensure that you don’t step over something because your foot is angled, only to bring your weight down on it when you plant your foot. 

And the c-step is not only useful for confrontations in the street.  As a parent I can personally vouch that this skill has saved my hide many a time avoiding toys in my kids room at night.