Karate Blocks
In traditional Karate, there are three zones for blocks: high, middle, and low. Here is a rundown of the Karate blocks used in Karate-do, Shotokan, Kyokushin Kai, and Shito Ryu. It’s important to note that when performing a block, the opposite arm is brought into a chamber position, similar to executing a back elbow strike. This serves as a safety measure in case of a surprise attack from behind.
- Age Uke – High Block
- Soto Uke – Inward block
- Gedan Barai Uke – Low Block
- Uchi Uke – Outside Forearm Block
- Shudan Uchi Uke – Inside Outside Forearm Block
- Gedan Uchi Barai – Downward Block From Outside to inside
- Gedan Otoshi – Downward Sweeping Block
- Shuto Uke – Knife Hand Block
- Hiki Uke – Grasp Pull
- Hake Uke – Hook Block
- Osae Uke – Push Down Block
- Tora Guchi – Tiger Mouth Hand
- Mae Hiji Ate – Front Outside Block
- Jodan Gucki – Tiger Mouth Hand
- Jodan Uchi Uke – Upper Inside Block
- Mawashi Uke – Wheel Block
- Morote Uke – Reinforced Block
- Shuto Gedan Uchi Barai – Down Block Openhand
- Hari Uke – Bow and Arrow Block
- Kuri Uke – Circular Elbow Block
- Ura Kake Uke – Back Hand Hook
- Kosa Uke – Cross Block
- Juji Uke – X Block
- Hiza Uke – Knee Block (in and out)
- Hiji Uke – Elbow Block (in and out)
- Sokutei Osae Uke – Press Block (with sole of foot)
- Haisoku Barai Uke – Instep Block
- Ko uke – Wrist Block
Recommendations
Here are some detailed points to keep in mind regarding the proper execution of Karate moves:
- Posture is crucial in Karate. Always keep your back straight to maintain balance and stability. This also helps to prevent injury and allows for a more effective transfer of power through your body.
- A strong stance is essential to provide support and balance while performing Karate techniques. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart, with your weight evenly distributed between them. Keep your knees slightly bent and your center of gravity low for maximum stability.
- Kiai is a term used in Karate to describe the forceful exhale that accompanies a strike or block. This technique involves focusing your energy and using your breath to increase the power of your movements. When executing a block, use your Kiai to add more strength to the technique, making it more effective in deflecting an opponent’s attack.
Karate Techniques
- Karate Techniques Page
- Karate Stances
- Karate Punches
- Karate Kicks
- Karate Blocks
- Karate Strikes
- Karate Traditional Katas
- Karate Traditional Weapons
- Karate General Terminology
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