Basic Blocking Drill 5

This is the beginning stages of a prearranged drill. The defense has been modified from the original which was based on an American Kenpo Self-Defence technique.

Notice the initial slap block across Shirt’s body (followed by a step and check before countering). The slap block is deceptively powerful but it must be followed up with other measures or it will be countered.

Without prejudice

Basic Blocking Drill 4

Both parties use both arms (but no legs). The attacks are light smooth and controlled. The vid clearly shows Jacket ‘catching’ the initial attacks before countering in a solid fashion.

This is a case of assuming control after the initial attack (instead os before or as the attack happens).

Without prejudice

Basic Blocking Drill 3

Similar to yesterday but taken so both participants can be seen clearly from the waist up.

Again, Jacket has the better of it with a crisp tight blocking style. Evasions and low arms leave Shirt open and vulnerable.

Without prejudice

Basic Blocking Drill 2

Notice that Jacket has his arms up and body poised. His blocks are crisp, powerful and keep him safe. He is able to strike and counterstrike almost at will.

Notice that Shirt has his hands down and his body slack. As a result, he has to evade or throw arms in the way of incoming attacks. His defense leaves him open and vulnerable.

Without prejudice

Basic Blocking Drill 1

My thanks go out again to Kurt for his efforts here.


Black Jacket (Kurt) is practicing blocking against Shirt (me). First we do four different basic blocks. The strikes are done to hit but only at about half speed (or even less). Once the four basic blocks have the defender warmed up, the attacks are done without warning and any of the four blocks may be called upon.


This drill is designed to teach a defender to switch cleanly and effectively between several different blocks. There are many different principles involved here but the primary ones are 'zone defense', 'half distance' and 'passive draws'.


Without prejudice

High, Low Center Backhand Knifehand Thrusts from the Opposite Hip

Like yesterday, I’m using a backhand knifehand high, then low and finally to the center. Today, I originate the strike from the opposite hip.

Without prejudice

High, Low, Center Backhand Knifehands from the Opposite Shoulder

There is a slight pause between blows as I reach over to the opposite shoulder before striking.

This drill is all about coordination. To make it functional, I’d change one hand to a forefist thrust (left or right, it doesn’t matter).

Without prejudice