Blocking is the act of moving, stopping, neutralizing, intercepting, or deflecting an incoming force, such as a kick, a punch, or a grab. The two tactical forces of blocking are power and guiding or deflecting. These two blocking forces break down into hundreds of blocking techniques. This article will deal with the two tactical forces to better understand the basic principles of blocking.
Many blocking techniques have fancy esoteric names, such as The Scissors, Hawk Wing, Crab Block, Butterfly, or One Finger Dragon. Still, no matter their name, they all deal with only two concepts: power blocks and redirection blocks. Power blocks are concerned with stopping or neutralizing attacks, while redirection blocks deal with intercepting or deflecting them.
Most blocking techniques involve footwork using various angles that move you away from the attack. This evasion tactic also puts you in a better position for a counterattack. Even in boxing, boxers move forward, backward, and at different angles.
As the name suggests, power blocks are strength-oriented, powerful blocks that use force against force. These blocks use the forearms to block or stop the attack. You see this a lot in boxing matches. The arms are usually kept close to the body at a ninety-degree angle.
Power blocks are used in close combat situations when you do not have time to evade the attack. Again, a perfect example of this is boxing. Kung Fu power blocks emphasize power, not only to stop the attack but also to damage a joint or break bones. That means that while defending yourself, you also use your block as an offensive technique.
Redirection blocks or guiding blocks depend on angular footwork to move your body away from the attack and, at the same time, deflect the incoming force. Guiding blocks usually unbalance the opponent, which allows you to use that to your advantage for a counterattack. Deflecting blocks also benefit from taking away another attack by the adversary because of the opponent’s unbalanced position.
Tai Chi uses redirection blocks as its only means of blocking. Tai Chi does not have any offensive attacks. Therefore, a Tai Chi practitioner only defends himself when attacked. He then uses a circular movement to deflect the attack and use that for his counterattack.
Redirection blocks always use some circular motion. Think of a ball. When the ball gets hit by force, that force moves off in a different direction. The same thing happens when using a circular block.
On the other hand, power blocks use power against power, and usually, the stronger person can win. That’s why Kung Fu power blocks attack vital joints, muscles, and bones.
Three things are necessary for proper blocking: developing the technique through partner practice exercises, confidence in the blocking method by practicing unrehearsed attacks, and proper mental attitude. One of my instructors told me that no one could hit you unless you wanted to be hit. I always believed in this small piece of philosophy. The more you practice and develop this proper attitude, the more you will see that this is true.
Remember, when approaching a defensive situation, always analyze what is happening around you. First, become aware of the situation before it happens. Second, put yourself in an advantageous position with plenty of room to move. Third, force the attack you want by watching the critical distance line. That takes away most attack methods, forcing the attacker to commit to only one move and advertising their intent. That way, you have plenty of time for what type of block you need to use, and you can use evasion to take away the opponent’s strength and power.