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In step 5, the leg is thrown with a 45° angle because this angle yields the largest resultant from the set of vertical and horizontal forces produced by the motion of the hips and legs.

b. Physiological and Psychological Principles

Considerations on breathing

Breathing is life itself. In the lungs, the inhaled oxygen is absorbed by the blood and carried to the cellular tissues where a number of chemical reactions take place. Among others, the combustion of glucose by oxygen provides muscular energy. The carbon dioxide resulting from the combustion is in turn carried by blood to the lungs and exhaled. Breathing also eliminates the lactic acid accumulating in the blood as a result of physical exercise. Lactic acid slows down the work of the muscles. The respiration process is thus a source of energy essential in insuring intense muscular activity and at the same time preventing the fatigue resulting from such activity.

The role played by abdominal breathing as a source of muscular power has been explained in the preceding section. Breathing is also the link between these physical and physiological considerations. It helps achieve the indispensable union of mind and body. When air is inhaled deeply and held in the tanden with correct centripetal pressure, the blood circulation is activated and the nervous system stimulated. As a result, the mind becomes more serene and mental concentration is increased. Perception becomes more acute and can detect any of the opponent's actions. The body can mobilize its resources to react in a split second.