How to Perform an Upper Block in Karate

Do you want to know how to block a punch or a kick to the face? How about a Louisville slugger as it arcs a downward path at your head? An upper block (jodan-uke), also known as a rising block (age-uke), will ward off the attack, while setting you up for a counterattack.

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Instructions

    • 1

      Face forward with one leg ahead of the other, keeping your legs shoulder width apart.

    • 2

      Turn your fist palm up on your forward arm, and extend it across your stomach, slightly below the waist.

    • 3

      Keep your other arm close to your body bent at a 90-degree angle, with your fist palm up. This position will guard your ribs against a side attack.

    • 4

      Raise your blocking arm up above your head in an arc, as if drawing a sword, until it is about a fist's distance above and forward of the top of your head.

    • 5

      Twist your wrist outward and upward at a 45-degree angle at the moment of impact. The blocking surface is the inside edge of the forearm.

    • 6

      Bring the other arm across the stomach during the block, and then withdraw quickly to the hip.