The Different Types of Blocks and When to Use Them
Martial arts training is about mastering skills that help us in self-defense, combat, and overall coordination that keeps our body in good shape. At the core of many martial arts styles is the concept of blocking. Blocking is an essential technique that allows us to protect ourselves from an opponent's attacks. In this article, we'll explore the different types of blocks and when to use them.
The Basics of Blocking
Blocking is a technique used in martial arts to stop or deflect an opponent's attack. In most martial arts styles, blocks are done using the arms, but in some styles, the legs are also used. Blocking can be done in a variety of ways, including:
- With the arm
- With the hand
- With the leg
- With the body
Effective blocking depends on timing, distance, and technique. You need to block the attack at the right time and with the right technique to avoid getting hit. With practice, you can develop your reflexes and techniques to deliver faster and more effective blocks.
The Different Types of Blocks
There are many types of blocks used in martial arts. Here are some of the most common ones:
High Blocks
High blocks are used to block strikes from above, such as punches or attacks with a weapon. High blocks use the arms to deflect the attack. You can use one arm or both arms to perform a high block.
Low Blocks
Low blocks are used to block strikes that are aimed at the lower half of the body, such as kicks. Low blocks use the legs or arms to deflect the attack. You can use one leg or both legs to perform a low block.
Inside Blocks
Inside blocks are used to block strikes that come from the inside of the body, such as an opponent's punch or kick. Inside blocks use the arms to deflect the attack.
Outside Blocks
Outside blocks are used to block strikes that come from the outside of the body, such as an opponent's punch or kick. Outside blocks use the arms to deflect the attack.
Parry Blocks
Parry blocks are used to redirect an opponent's attack instead of blocking it. Parry blocks use the arms or legs to deflect the attack sideways, taking the opponent off balance.
Diverting Blocks
Diverting blocks are used to deflect an opponent's attack in a different direction than it was intended. Diverting blocks use the arms or legs to deflect the attack to the side or diagonally.
Stop Blocks
Stop blocks are used to stop an opponent's attack before it is fully executed. Stop blocks use the arms to stop the attack by redirecting it or by intercepting it.
When to Use Each Type of Block
Knowing when to use each type of block is essential for effective defense. Here are some examples of when to use each type of block:
- Use high blocks when you anticipate a punch or attack from above.
- Use low blocks when you anticipate a kick or attack aimed at your lower body.
- Use inside blocks when your opponent attacks from the inside of their body.
- Use outside blocks when your opponent attacks from the outside of their body.
- Use parry blocks when you want to take the opponent off balance and create an opportunity to counter-attack.
- Use diverting blocks when you want to deflect the attack and create an opening for a counter-attack.
- Use stop blocks when you want to intercept the attack and neutralize it before it hits you.
Conclusion
Blocking is an important part of martial arts training. By mastering different types of blocks, you can effectively defend against an opponent's attacks, creating openings for counter-attacks. With practice, you can develop faster reflexes and techniques that will make you a more skilled martial artist.