Introduction to Defensive Blocks

The instructor introduces the fundamental concept of defensive blocks as essential self-protection techniques against strikes, grabs, and armed attacks. Effective blocking requires proper positioning and technique to safely deflect incoming threats while maintaining balance and control.

Inside and Outside Deflection Principles

Two primary deflection categories are defined by hand movement relative to the body's centerline. Inside deflections move the controlling hand toward the centerline, while outside deflections direct it away. Understanding this directional distinction forms the foundation for all blocking variations.

Hand Positioning and Shock Absorption

Proper hand placement maximizes contact surface area and distributes impact force effectively. The palm heel and knife edge of the hand absorb shock while the extended fingers remain protected from being crushed. This positioning creates a stable buffer against incoming strikes.

Inside Deflection Technique

The inside deflection begins from the on-guard position with a step back on the corresponding side. The blocking hand crosses the body toward the centerline while maintaining bent knees for stability and shock absorption. Proper footwork prevents the defender from remaining stationary under sustained attack.

Outside Deflection Technique

The outside deflection utilizes outward hand movement away from the centerline. This technique can be executed from the on-guard position without additional footwork, or combined with an off-angle step for enhanced evasion. The dominant hand's strength provides natural power for this directional block.

Footwork and Target Evasion

Effective deflection combines hand technique with deliberate body movement to shift the target away from incoming weapons. The off-angle step (toward nine o'clock) or reverse step (toward six o'clock) prevents the defender from absorbing unnecessary punishment. Footwork integration is critical for sustainable defense.

Active Energy Transfer in Blocking

Rather than passively absorbing strikes, the defender actively channels energy toward the incoming threat. This 'meet it to beat it' principle applies force from the defender's body through the blocking hand into the weapon or attacker. Active blocking generates superior control compared to static absorption.

Single-Hand Blocking Applications

Inside and outside deflection principles extend to single-hand techniques, offering increased mobility and striking capability. While single-hand blocks sacrifice the protective coverage of a rear guard hand, they enable simultaneous offensive counterattacks. This variation maintains system consistency with increased tactical versatility.

Block and Strike Integration

The distinction between defensive blocks and striking techniques is fundamentally semantic rather than mechanical. Both employ the same directional force application to targets. This integration allows practitioners to seamlessly transition between pure defense and combined defensive-offensive actions.

Inside deflection Outside deflection

Bryan Hawkins Kenpo

Forearm Deflection

2 min read·9 key moments·PT9M1S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to Defensive Blocks
•Inside and Outside Deflection Principles
•Hand Positioning and Shock Absorption
•Inside Deflection Technique

Related Techniques

Cross-Arm Block Shoulder Roll Defence

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about forearm deflection?

This video covers introduction to defensive blocks, inside and outside deflection principles, hand positioning and shock absorption. It provides detailed instruction from Bryan Hawkins Kenpo.

How long does it take to learn forearm deflection?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 9-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.