|
Techniques -
Basics: Blocks
|
The Overhead Cross Block or Juji Age Uke is for situations when you are unable to
escape and need to stop an attack from above. Most likely this block
will be stopping an oncoming overhead chop or an attack with a weapon
such as a bat or thick stick. In its basic form the block is completed
with closed fists for protection against harm to the hands. However, it
may be completed with open palm in order to provide better grip on the
attacking arm for grappling purposes. (See follow through technique below)
An important consideration when using this block against an armed or
unarmed technique is to block far enough up the oncoming overhead arm.
That is, when defending against an overhead chop you must stop the
overhead chop by cross blocking somewhere between the shoulder and the
elbow. It is not possible to successfully block an overhead hammer or
chop if you merely stop the forearm. That’s because the attacker can
simply strike again with the same arm if necessary, you must stop his
entire momentum. 
However, when stopping above the elbow, between it and the shoulder,
you effectively stop the forward motion of the attacker. Thus you will
be required to shorten the distance between yourself and the attacker.
You do this by either moving slightly forward toward the attacker or by
taking a forward posture such as the front stance. Also, once correctly
applied there is an opportunity to use Knee Strike #2. Since the
overhead cross block stops the entire momentum of the attacker, it is
important to redirect him in a manner that you can control. The best
manner is to strike using the Knee Strike #2 (found in the Advanced
Basics manual). 
|
Home 
Techniques 
