How to Perform Basic Karate Blocks

Karate is a fighting style that includes many hand strikes and kicks that can be delivered to the face, torso, groin or thighs. To defend himself, a karateka (karate student) must employ blocking techniques that ward off the attacks and set him up for a counterstrike. The "age uke" (high block) and the "gedan barai" (low block) are basic blocking techniques that can be used to deflect many aggressive strikes.

Instructions

  1. Performing the "Age Uke" (High Block)

    • 1

      Assume your fighting stance. Step out with one foot with your knees slightly bent. Your stance should be no wider than your shoulders. Hold your lead hand in front and your back hand down by your hip. Keep your hands loose, your elbows slightly bent, and your palms facing upward.

    • 2

      Turn your lead elbow out and raise your arm. As the strike comes toward your chin, your forearm travels in front of your face and catches the strike, pushing it upward. Raise your arm high enough to ensure that the strike travels safely over your head and be careful not to obstruct your sight with your own arm.

    • 3

      Snap your elbow to add power to the block and change the direction of the attack. The snap not only makes the block more effective, it serves as an attack against the striker's arm.

    Performing the "Gedan Barai" (Low Block)

    • 4

      Assume your fighting stance.

    • 5

      Twist your lead arm downward at the elbow, sending your lead hand down toward your front knee. This block is used to defect strikes to the stomach, rib cage and groin. Your forearm catches the strike and deflects it to the side of your body.

    • 6

      Twist your hip at the very end of the block to add power to the block. This also makes your body appear more narrow to your opponent, which denies him targets for a following strike.