How to Perform a Downward Block in Karate
One of the most popular fighting styles is ‘Karate’, which originated from Japan. It was inspired by the Chinese martial arts and involves some extremely effective techniques which can be employed to overcome your opponents. Although this form of fighting is not easy, one can master it with proper practice, patience and perseverance.
Karate’s world-wide popularity has been affected somewhat after the Korean form, Taekwondo, took over. The latter of the two fighting styles is also a part of the Olympic Games.
However, most people are unaware that Taekwondo was inspired by Karate, thus the latter is considered to be the original form. There are some lethal attack techniques in Karate, but defense is as important as attack. While there are several defensive maneuvers in Karate as well, the downward block is one of the core ones.
Instructions
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1
Position yourself properly
Whenever you are involved in a fight, you have to position yourself properly otherwise you will be vulnerable to a lot of attacks. Make sure that you practice and master your stance before you up against an opponent in Karate. If you are looking to block downwards, you will have to start with the basic stance, where you hands will be positioned below the waistline. When you are using the moves freely, your hands will be slightly upwards, near your chest area. -
2
See what’s coming
Karate is all about your judgement, and if you fail to judge and anticipate, you will end up in a vulnerable position. Not only will you lose the fight, but there is a serious chance of sustaining damage to your bones. Pick up things early and see what your opponent is up to. If, you sense an attack, you should position yourself for a block immediately. -
3
Determine the nature of attack
Most of the downward attacks will come from the legs of the opponent, so you have to react very quickly. However, don’t underestimate the other person, as he/she can use the arms in a downward attack as well. Once you have found out the nature of the attack, you will be able to defend better. -
4
Block with your arm
Take a step backwards and block your opponents attack with your arm. The downward attack will be below your waistline, so you have to position your arms accordingly. Once you have completed the move, you can counter attack to win some points in the fight.
