Blocks

Most of our blocks, in KJKB, are two. Then, we have two others that can be seen as offshots. And even the first two are, basically, the same block with altered coordination. In fact, if you use one of the variants of one, pressuring into the centerline, you get almost the same final position.

It's curious, because those two blocks are, mostly, efficient versions of what Rory calls 'Dracula's cape' and 'the spear', resp (*). Also, while they do work as blocks, that's really only the beginning, almost an excuse. What you really get is an entry.

So, I'm beginning to rethink blocks, and punches. I'm starting to think of punches as a way to increase your distance and blocks ans ways to close them. This classification has its own troubles, but bear with me.

Imagine an oi-tsuki. Once you've done it, and supposing your opponent hasn't been pushed back (or fallen, or...), your guy is an arm's length away. Precisely so. This means you have that distance, you know it and you can choose what to do with it (a kick, running away...). He's not choosing his distance any longer. That's quite a plus. Same for an elbow strike, a side kick, you name it.

Now, imagine the upper block (that's Tristan Sutrisno, on your right side; superb). If you do that against, say, our previous oi-tsuki, you enter his perimeter. Again, you control your distance. This time, however, you're closing in, and jamming his movement. In some options, you just locked his retreating arm, and he'll need to get rid of that to use it again or to close into you, and you'll have time to work your own ideas.

"Before I studied the art, a punch to me was just like a punch, a block just like a block. After I learned the art, a punch was no longer a punch, a block no longer a block." Shu-ha-ri, Bruce Lee edition. Let's see if I reach the next one.

Take care.

(*) I do not, in any way shape or form, endorse Bauer. For a single nanosecond.