How to Parry a Punch in Jeet Kune Do

The martial artist Bruce Lee defined parrying as "a light, easy movement depending on timing rather than force." There are three parries in Jeet Kune Do: simple, semicircular and circular.

Difficulty:

Moderately challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Martial Arts Supplies
• Martial Arts Uniforms
• Martial Arts Videos

Using a Simple Parry

1. Face forward with your body turned to the side at the hips. Your forward foot will face the attacker. Your rear foot will face outside at a 90-degree angle.

2. Keep your weight on the balls of your feet with a low center of gravity. Slightly bend your knees.

3. 

   Wait for the attacker to begin the execution of a jab or straight punch.

4. 

   Lean slightly away and parry (strike) with your open palm against the forearm of the attacker's punching arm.

5. Use only enough force to deflect the attacker's punch perpendicular to the direction of the strike. Over-deflection of a parry leaves you open for a counterattack.

6. 

   Counterstrike with the opposite arm or return to your fighting position.

Using a Semicircular Parry

1. Face forward with your body turned to the side at the hips. Your forward foot will face the attacker. Your rear foot will face outside at a 90-degree angle.

2. Keep your weight on the balls of your feet with a low center of gravity. Slightly bend your knees.

3. Wait for the attacker to begin the execution of a jab or straight punch.

4. Lean slightly away and parry (strike) with your open palm against the forearm or wrist of the attacker's punching arm.

5. Sweep away the strike in a semicircular motion, bringing your hand back to the original position after the parry to continue your defensive position.

6. Counterstrike with the opposite arm or return to your fighting position.

Using a Circular Parry

1. Face forward with your body turned to the side at the hips. Your forward foot will face the attacker. Your rear foot will face outside at a 90-degree angle.

2. Keep your weight on the balls of your feet with a low center of gravity. Slightly bend your knees.

3. Wait for the attacker to begin the execution of a jab or straight punch.

4. Lean slightly away and parry (strike) with your open palm against the wrist of the attacker's punching arm.

5. Sweep away the strike in a circular motion, bringing your hand back to the original position after the parry. Be sure your shoulder is relaxed.

6. Counterstrike with the opposite arm or return to your fighting position.

Tips & Warnings

• Simple parrying is effective when the attacker's movements are large and badly directed. Remember to use just enough deflecting motion to protect the threatened area.

• A semicircular parry is most effective against high attacks directed to a lower target, or low attacks directed at a higher target.

• Practice with a partner to improve the timing of your blocks.

• Practicing the martial arts is an inherently dangerous activity that can result in serious injury or death. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.

• 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.