Martial Arts Home Study - System Of Blocking

Now that I’ve hopefully stimulated your mind let’s get into some techniques. This month where going to focus on defence by learning some blocks, the system I am going to show you is called “4 Corner Blocking”. The idea behind these blocks is they take a more practical and eclectic approach to defence, rather than learning the more classical forms of blocking – this allows you to learn something you will be able to quickly absorb and easily apply. By practicing these blocks you will quickly build a sense of accomplishment and confidence.

I’m sure that anyone who has ever sparred or had to defend themselves will know that using an outer block will not be able to defend against a punch. An outer block would work using the proper application; this is not to block a punch.

Block 1-2

This block is a downward parry; it works well defending against kicking attacks to the body i.e. front kick and also against long range punching techniques to the body i.e. reverse punch. The block is repeated on both sides

BLOCK 3-4

This block is another parry and is used to defend against attacks to the face from techniques such as roundhouse kick and jab cross punches.

BLOCK 5-6

This block mainly defends against circular techniques such as hook punch, roundhouse kick. It can also be used to block techniques coming straight down the middle. This block can be called a “rising elbow block” or a “telephone block”, this block is great for self defence because the most common attack throughout history is the over hand right, whether it was with a spear, sling shot, knife or a punch.

BLOCK 7-8

This block is commonly used in Muay Thai the shin block. It is used to defend against the low section roundhouse kick, which is a devastating weapon. Keep your guard up when performing this block so that you don’t leave your open body open when defending against the kick. Shin guards are recommended to practice this block with a partner.

TIPS FOR BLOCKING

When parrying keep your fingers tight together and block with your palm. Fingers can easily be broken if left open.
When performing more than one block, pull the hand you have blocked with straight back to your guard so that you don’t leave yourself open. Always have one hand covering whilst the other blocks, avoid your blocks looking like you are waving.
Keep your chin tucked in at all times.
Breath out with each block.

How to train you blocks

• Firstly begin by shadowing your block, start with each block separately and then build up so you can do all 8 in order. In front of a mirror would be ideal so you can check your form.
• Practice with a partner, get your partner to feed you realistic techniques with control and then work your blocks
• Use a blocker or alternatively pipe lagging from a diy store are great because you can work fast attacks using the blocker without the risk of being hurt. This will develop your speed and timing.

Now we have covered the skills and the technical elements lets get training. Remember repetition is the mother of all skills; train and you can only get better. I look forward to working with you next month.