When to Block a Strike

A block is a movement that forcefully interrupts the opponent’s attack, thereby extinguishing it. Blocking is an aggressive, initiative action that requires commitment. It is most useful against evenly matched or smaller opponents because in blocking, force is met with force and the stronger person will likely win.

Because blocking naturally creates opposition by the opponent, immediately follow a block with a series of finishing blows. If you fail in initiating a quick secondary response, you risk an aggressive counterattack by your opponent. Blocking, like parrying, is often done with the hands and forearms. Blocks are described by the section of the body to which they are applied (high section, low section, and middle section) or by the direction of the application of force (inward, outward, upward, or downward). They also can be classified as straight or circular.

Leg blocks are useful for stopping attacks to the legs and lower trunk, however, they require speed and anticipation. Beyond the commonly practiced arm and leg blocks, there are several uncommon but highly effective blocks such as the V block.