For martial arts students, there is an equal emphasis placed on blocking
an opponent's strikes as there is on learning to attack. When blocking
strikes, whether it be punches, kicks, elbows, knees, etc., there is
often more than one technique. For most karate students, the four main
types of strike defense they are initially taught include the high
block, low block, inside block, and outer block.
Some martial arts schools will deviate slightly from others in
regards to technique, but for the most part these four types of blocks
are standardized across multiple martial arts disciplines. To learn more
try doing some searches on YouTube for videos of martial arts
practitioners performing each of these blocks, having a visual aid is a
great benefit for learning proper form.
High blocking
is a technique commonly used to defend downward strikes to the head,
such as hammer fists, backhands, and axe kicks. When attempting to block
a downward strike the arm is raised above the head, with a closed fist
facing out, and the outer forearm is used to deflect he attack.
Low blocking
is used to block and deflect strikes to the mid-body, such as
roundhouse kicks, straight kicks, and hook punches. When blocking a
mid-body strike, the arm moves from the guard position in a downward
circular motion in an attempt to deflect the punch or kick with the back
of the forearm.
Inside blocking is a great way
to prevent straight attacks, including straight kicks, side kicks, and
jab punches. To execute this defensive move, the arm turns inward from
the guard position aiming to divert the strike away from the face and/or
body by pushing it away with the outer forearm.
Outer blocking
is the opposite movement of the inside block and is a great way to
deflect an array of attacks, including roundhouse kicks, roundhouse
punches, and spinning backhands. To perform an outer block, move the arm
from the guard position outward so that the forearm makes contact with
the strike, leaving a closed fist facing away from the body.
The
best way to know which block to use against different punches and kicks
is to practice regularly, not only at home in front of a mirror, but in
sparring and practicing with other students. The goal of practicing is
to train the mind and body's reaction to attacks, the more practice put
in, the more the body will learn to instinctively react.
To learn more about
martial arts in Chandler, please visit SandovalKarate.net, a martial arts school offering self-defense and
karate in Gilbert and Chandler, Arizona.
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