How to Use a Rising Block in Koden Kan Martial Arts

Developed by Michael Foley over a period of 25 years, koden kan karate is a complex style of martial arts which combines a number of other techniques. Taking influence from judo, aikido, shoto kan and more, koden kan focuses on hand-to-hand combat training. The rising block is one of the first and most important techniques that students of koden kan karate should learn.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Begin in the koden kan kibadachi stance. Spread your legs about 3 feet apart with your toes facing forward. Squat down into the stance with your back straight and your legs strong.

2. Form fists with your hands and pull your elbows straight back.Your fists should be resting knuckles up at chest level while your thumbs point out. Keep your arms and fists tucked tight into your body. Your elbows should be lifted enough that your forearms are parallel to the ground.

3. Bring your right hand across the front of your body, lifting your fist and keeping your upper arm in tight. At the peak of the rising block the bottom of your fist should be level with the top of your head just slightly to the left side. Your fist should turn out as you lift so that it ends with the top of your hand facing you.

4. Lower your right hand as you lift to block with your left hand. Practice this move slowly, as your forearms should cross at your chest as you lift with the left and lower with the right. Continue the rising block, alternating sides, as part of your regular practice.

5. Use the rising block from the kibadachi stance as defense against an overhead strike in koden kan karate.

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