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How to Perform a Knife-Hand Block in Tae Kwon Do

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
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Do you know how to block a punch or a kick to the middle of your body? A knife-hand block will ward off an attack while setting you up for a strong counterattack.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Martial Arts Supplies
  • Martial Arts Uniforms
  • Martial Arts Videos
  1. Step 1

    Face forward, and turn your body to the side, one leg ahead of the other. Rest your forward leg on the balls of the foot (back stance).

  2. Step 2

    Reach your forward arm across your front and extend it back to your rear shoulder, your open hand almost cupping your ear. Hold your extended fingers together tightly with your thumb tucked into your palm.

  3. Step 3

    Raise your other arm level with your chest, your hand formed into a fist.

  4. Step 4

    Position your back arm on the outside of your blocking arm.

  5. Step 5

    Move your blocking arm slightly downward and across the front of your body.

  6. Step 6

    Keep the elbow bent at a 90-degree angle, and twist your wrist so that the palm faces outward.

  7. Step 7

    Meet the attacker's limb with the knife-hand edge of your hand (the fleshy part below the pinky finger). The block lands in line with the forward knee, the arm at a 90-degree angle, with the top of the hand at eye level, palm facing outward.

  8. Step 8

    Pull your other arm back against your side as you're blocking the attack with your blocking arm. The palm will face up.

Tips & Warnings
  • Simultaneously pulling your arms in opposite directions as you deliver the block will increase the power of the block.
  • Keep your fingers together and slightly curved, with your thumb tucked into your palm. This strengthens your striking surface and protects your hand from injury.
  • If you have any condition that would impair or limit your ability to engage in physical activity, please consult a physician before attempting this activity. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.
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