Initial Scenario: The Unwanted Grab

The morote uke (double arm block) is most effectively applied when an opponent attempts to restrain the practitioner during a confrontation. The technique begins when the opponent grabs the wrist or bicep as the practitioner attempts to disengage from the altercation.

Primary Defense Principle

When pulled inward by an opponent's grip, the practitioner should recognize that multiple escape routes exist. However, kata provides the most efficient and reliable solution for this common scenario.

Positioning the Counter-Attack

Rather than attempting to escape from the opponent's initial pulling position, the practitioner should step inward and control the opponent's wrist with a tucking motion. This repositioning neutralizes the opponent's primary attacking limb.

The Cutting Motion

The practitioner executes a cutting action across the opponent's wrist rather than a simple downward block. This cutting motion, combined with proper timing and angle, generates significantly more power and control.

Upper Body Engagement

As the practitioner steps forward, the elbow drives upward and over the opponent's arm, rolling both arms outward in a controlled arc. This creates leverage and sets up the final striking sequence.

Sequential Striking

Following the arm rotation, the practitioner delivers rapid strikes to the front of the opponent's wrist. The combination of blocking, positioning, and striking neutralizes the threat efficiently.

Common Attack Variations

The wrist and bicep grab represent the most frequently encountered control attempts in real altercations. Attackers use these grabs to establish dominance and create the illusion of controlling the practitioner.

Regaining Control

The immediate objective is to restore the practitioner's authority over the situation through decisive positioning and technique execution. By controlling the opponent's limbs and establishing dominance, the practitioner prevents escalation and maintains safety.

morote uke Bunkai Strategies 2020 week 19 koryu karate oyo jutsu

John Burke

Double Arm Block

2 min read·8 key moments·PT3M10S video

Key Takeaways

•Initial Scenario: The Unwanted Grab
•Primary Defense Principle
•Positioning the Counter-Attack
•The Cutting Motion

http://www.bunkai.co.uk for the free Bunkai Strategies Newsletter and our range of DVDs, Books, and Downloads. In this week's clip, we take a look at the morote uke of Heian Godan

Related Techniques

Shotei Chudan Uke Shuto Chudan Uke Shuto Gedan Barai Shuto Jodan Uke Single Arm Block

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about double arm block?

This video covers initial scenario: the unwanted grab, primary defense principle, positioning the counter-attack. It provides detailed instruction from John Burke.

How long does it take to learn double arm 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.