Blocking techniques
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Template:Unsourced A block is a technique in martial arts that prevents an attack from making contact with your body by placing a limb (usually) across the line of the attack.
In Japanese these techniques are referred to as uke waza. Examples in Shotokan Karate include age uke (or "rising block") and shuto uke (or "knife-hand block").
Blocking techniques are common in Taekwondo as well.
An effective block will require both good structure (correct alignment of the body) and good strength relative to your attacker, not to mention good timing in order to intercept the attack.
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Basic Types of Blocks
Surfaces: Inner and Outer Forearms
Blocks are normally done with the forearm. Forearm blocks can be done with the outer part of the forearm, just below the wrist, or the inner part of the forearm, either just below the wrist or against the muscle just above the elbow.
Motions: Inward and Outward Blocks
Regardless of which blocking surface is used, there are two basic blocking motions. The most common motion is outward, where the blocking surface is brought toward the attack to intercept or deflect the attack.
The other motion is inward, where the block continues the momentum of the attack past the defender, causing it to miss. Typically, because of the angles involved, inward blocks are used against attacks aimed at the torso, though they can be used to defend any area.
Areas Of Coverage
Blocks can:
- rise up to protect the top of the head (rising)
- be aimed high to protect the head from the side (high)
- be aimed centrally to protect the torso (middle)
- be aimed low to protect the lower body (low)
Other Types of Blocks
Offensive techniques can be used to block. For example, a kick or palm strike can be used to neutralize an incoming blow.
There are also more advanced blocks that are designed not to deflect blows, but to trap the attacker's arm or leg as the attack is made.
Alternatives to Blocking
Other ways of avoiding being hit include evasion, slipping and deflection. Blocks are considered the most direct, and the least subtle of these defensive techniques - some martial arts, such as taijiquan, reject these techniques completely considering them too inefficient.