Three rings of defense

The Three rings of defence were basic principles of lightsaber combat introduced into Luke Skywalker's New Jedi Order by Kam Solusar, who was experienced in fencing.

Outer ring
The outer ring had four guard positions at the upper right; upper left; lower right and lower left. The outermost ring was characterized by sweeping heavy blows, which though powerful would take longer to deliver.

Middle ring
Like the outer ring, the middle had four guard positions, high, low and left and right. The middle ring was used to pick up quicker blows and stop them before they could intersect with the body, which was one of the most effective way of deflecting blaster bolts.

Inner ring
The inner ring of defense used parries as opposed to blocks and was primarily used against lunging attacks. The lightsaber was kept in close to the body, with the hilt covering the navel. With the tip of the blade angeled so that attacks could be picked up on its lower third, then to be shunted aside, and a riposte against and enemy's stomach or chest was possible. This was the last line of defense and was considered dangerous to both defend and attack from.

Behind the scenes
It is interesting to note that there are parallels between the three rings and the three styles introduced in Jedi outcast and elaborated in Jedi Knight: Jedi Academy. The Inner ring is very suitable for lightsaber combat in the Fast style, while the Outer ring is suitable for combat in the Strong style. Finally, the Middle ring is suitable for conbat in the Medium style.

Appearances

 * I, Jedi