Foundational Stance

The outside and inside chest blocks are executed from a stable standing position with feet shoulder-width apart and knees slightly bent. Practitioners should maintain tight fists and remain grounded throughout the technique. This foundational stance provides the necessary stability and power generation for effective blocking.

Outside Chest Block Setup

The outside chest block begins with one hand extended in front at the center line with two big knuckles forward, while the other hand positions itself to the outside of the head. This setup position establishes the proper geometry for the blocking motion. The practitioner should maintain tension and readiness in both hands during this phase.

Outside Chest Block Execution

As the blocking arm crosses the center line, the opposite hand chambers sharply inward. The blocking arm maintains a tucked elbow position close to the body rather than extending outward. Speed and power are generated through the coordinated push of the blocking arm and pull of the chambering hand.

Outside Block Mechanics

The key mechanical element of the outside chest block is maintaining an elbow-in position throughout the movement. The fist should remain in line with the arm, and the block should cross the opponent's center line decisively. This positioning maximizes structural integrity and defensive coverage.

Inside Chest Block Setup

The inside chest block follows a similar structure but with a critical directional difference: the non-blocking hand positions itself underneath the opposite arm rather than to the outside of the head. Practitioners must avoid tucking the hand into the armpit, maintaining a controlled position beneath the arm instead.

Inside Chest Block Execution

As with the outside block, the opposite hand chambers sharply while the blocking arm comes from underneath and across the center line. The elbow remains tucked close to the body, and the wrist maintains tension throughout the movement. The simultaneous pull and push action generates speed and power in the block.

Unified Power Generation

Both the outside and inside chest blocks rely on coordinated pulling and pushing actions between the chambering hand and blocking arm. This simultaneous action creates the speed and power necessary for effective defense. Practitioners should emphasize this dual-action principle in both variations.

Outside and Inside Chest Block Tutorial X Sebastian Couture

Douvris Barrhaven

Outside Defense

2 min read·7 key moments·PT1M45S video

Key Takeaways

•Foundational Stance
•Outside Chest Block Setup
•Outside Chest Block Execution
•Outside Block Mechanics

Check out our Tutorial of the Inside and Outside Chest Block taught by Sensei Sebastian.

Related Techniques

Inside Defense Defence Against Hook Punch Defence Against Uppercut Inside Defence Against Straight Punch Krav Maga 360 Defence

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about outside defense?

This video covers foundational stance, outside chest block setup, outside chest block execution. It provides detailed instruction from Douvris Barrhaven.

How long does it take to learn outside defense?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 7-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.