Karate High Block

peterasotoJuly 11, 20242 Mins read15

Karate High Block - Age Uke

Karate High Block

The Age Uke, commonly referred to as the high block, rising block, or upward block, is a fundamental defensive technique in Karate. It is primarily used to defend against strikes aimed at the upper body, specifically attacks that target areas above the solar plexus, such as punches, kicks, or weapon strikes aimed at the head or neck.

What sets the Age Uke apart is its versatility and significance across various martial arts disciplines. Although the basic concept remains the same—redirecting or deflecting an upward strike—its execution may slightly differ depending on the style. For example, in Karate, the block involves a sharp, upward motion with a bent arm, emphasizing both speed and power, while other styles may employ a more fluid or circular movement.

The Age Uke is more than just a defensive maneuver; it plays a vital role in maintaining balance, body structure, and preparedness for counterattacks. When performed correctly, it requires precise timing and coordination between the hips and the arms, reinforcing the practitioner’s stance and providing an opportunity to retaliate quickly.

In addition to its practical applications in sparring or self-defense, the Age Uke is a prominent element in many Katas (pre-arranged forms or patterns) across Karate styles. These Katas allow practitioners to internalize the mechanics of the block, along with its transitions into offensive techniques like punches or strikes. Mastering Age Uke can greatly enhance a martial artist’s overall defensive capabilities, as it emphasizes not just blocking the attack, but also setting up opportunities for immediate counteroffensive moves.

Overall, Age Uke is not just a critical block—it is a building block for developing timing, power, and strategic movement in Karate and other martial arts.

Karate High Block Details

To make sure you have a proper high block you need to:

Your forearm should not be close to your forehead.
The high block goes up from the middle of your body until reaches in front of your head.
Your forearm should not be flat, it should be a bit at an angle to facilitate the control of the attacker in case you would want to grab the wrist.
Do not lean forward the arm or the attacker, keep your back straight because you should be in control.

Karate High Block Step by step

Your starting position should be a Kiba dachi or any other training stance.
Your hands should be on your right side before you do your first block.
Your first block should move to the center of your body, which has to travel up in front of your forehead and then rotate your forearm exposing the outer side of it.
Keep your elbow aligned with your shoulder.

Age Uke is usually practiced against straight punches, we see a 90-degree angle in front and above the forehead. This will expose the attacker’s ribs and part of the middle section to a counterattack.

Karate High Block Recommendations

Do not overextend your block, it should end where your body ends.
Your block has to be extended out from your forehead.
Do not lean forward when blocking, the block meets the attack only.

Is the high block or Age Uke effective in Kumite?

The High Block is a very effective block, but in Kumite, it would depend on the attack and how skillful you are. You should always have a counterattack after a block, especially in Kumite.