Basic Block Positions
The instructor demonstrates foundational blocking positions: inside blocks, overhead blocks, and downward blocks. Students are instructed to memorize these basic defensive postures as the foundation for advanced Filipino martial arts technique.
Philosophy: No Block in Real Defense
The instructor argues that true self-defense contains no actual blocking—only positioning and preemption. By moving into proper stance the moment an opponent initiates an attack, the defender neutralizes the threat before it can fully develop, making passive blocks unnecessary.
Movement and Positioning Over Blocking
Rather than meeting force with force, the technique emphasizes moving the body forward and to the side simultaneously with the opponent's attack. This positioning places the defender at an angle where a counterattack becomes immediately available while the opponent cannot continue their strike.
Inside and Outside Blocks with Offensive Intent
Inside blocks and outside blocks are demonstrated with the principle that the same movement that clears a strike simultaneously positions the defender for an immediate counterattack. The instructor emphasizes that defensive and offensive movements are unified rather than separate.
Scissor Block Formation
The instructor demonstrates a crossing or scissor block pattern formed by both hands meeting at an X position overhead. This formation provides coverage from multiple angles and remains consistent regardless of the opponent's strike origin.
Unified Blocking Against Different Strikes
The same block pattern is shown to defend against strikes from various angles and positions. Whether strikes come from the inside, outside, or high positions, the foundational blocking mechanics remain constant across the Filipino martial arts system.
Block Adaptation: Armed to Unarmed Transitions
The instructor demonstrates that blocking mechanics remain fundamentally unchanged whether the defender is armed with a stick or fighting with empty hands. The body positioning, timing, and defensive principle transfer directly across different weapon and unarmed contexts.
Block Consistency Across Combat Scenarios
The blocking technique is shown to function identically against punches, kicks, and elbow strikes. The instructor emphasizes that changing the block based on the type of strike indicates fundamental misunderstanding; the principle of positioning remains constant across all attack types.
Learning Not To Block In Filipino Martial Arts
Key Takeaways
- •Basic Block Positions
- •Philosophy: No Block in Real Defense
- •Movement and Positioning Over Blocking
- •Inside and Outside Blocks with Offensive Intent
GM Oliver "Pintados" Garduce discusses how as a beginner in filipino martial arts your block should be able to be translated to any weapon in your hand or even empty hand combat. As you progress in skill level your blocking actually becomes an attack.
Related Techniques
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about defensa — block?
This video covers basic block positions, philosophy: no block in real defense, movement and positioning over blocking. It provides detailed instruction from Budo Brothers.
How long does it take to learn defensa — block?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 8-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing defensa — block?
The instructor demonstrates that blocking mechanics remain fundamentally unchanged whether the defender is armed with a stick or fighting with empty hands. The body positioning, timing, and defensive principle transfer directly across different weapon and unarmed contexts.
