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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