As I mentioned before, kicks are powerful weapons that can do a lot of damage. This is because the legs are larger, stronger, muscularly thicker, and more bone dense than your arms. As a result, kicks are so powerful that if you were to block the kick with your hands, they and your fingers could easily be broken by the kick. For this reason, we will block kicks by other means.
This week we are covering the Forearms Defense to block kicks. Blocking kicks with your forearm(s) are a good way to block mid to high range kicks to your upper body or head without damaging your hands or fingers.
Note: I am NOT referring to your hands, which can break upon impact.
When standing in neutral or fighting stance, you will notice that your forearms are in a vertical position, already blocking part of your torso. Tightening your forearms and clenching your fists helps to prepare them for the impact of the kick. If possible, step in towards the opponent to lessen the impact. It’s the end of the kick that has the most force. Additionally, stepping in towards the opponent can knock them off balance.
How to perform forearm defenses:
To block a kick to the body:
Twist your torso in the direction of the assailants kicking leg, so your forearms are facing the direction of the kick.
Block with one or both forearms (both forearms are better against powerful kicks). Clench your fists and tighten your forearms.
Keep your forearms close to your body, perpendicular to the kick.
Step in towards the assailant if possible.
To block a kick to the head:
Twist your torso in the direction of the assailants kicking leg, so your forearms are facing the direction of the kick.
Lift your forearms up and outward to meet the kick. Block with one or both forearms (both forearms are better against powerful kicks).
Keep your forearms in vertical position and tightened, so they are perpendicular to the kick.
Step in towards the assailant if possible.
Below is a quick tutorial of how to block high kicks with your forearms.
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Lawrence Castanon,
Author, The Short Fight
Using Forearms to Block Kicks
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