Umpad's early format focused on "doblecada", use of double sticks, where he began to attract attention. His insights on leverage allowed Umpad, a slight man, to hit with speed and power from any angle. He became known for his centerline roll, which incorporated Wing Chun's straight punch principle into a simple and unique method of double sticks that is “live”, meaning it does not rely on set patterns or left/right hand matchups to be effective. As students progressed, they moved from stick to blade, intensifying their training.