How to Do a Right Block Chop Combo in United Combat Style Martial Arts

United Combat Style is a form of martial arts invented by one of Michigan’s top martial arts Masters. United Combat Style combines several forms of martial arts; tae kwon do, shotokon, kempo and kung fu, as well as components of wrestling, Thai boxing and the use of acupressure points to quickly subdue an opponent. This unique style of martial arts utilizes the most effective moves of each form, combined with a unique, well-balanced ready stance, in order to maximize a person’s strengths. United Combat Style is an ideal set of self-defense techniques, because it boils down the quickest, most basic martial arts moves for a no-nonsense, clean defense that is useful on the mat and the street alike. This block with ridge hand chop is a quick and effective combination defense with offense.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Assume a right ready stance. Place your right foot in front, angled at about 45 degrees to the inside. The back foot points at a slightly more forward angle than the front. Elevate the back heel a couple inches and align it with the big toe on your front foot. Square your hips to the side, with arms held in a defensive position, hands just below the chin, either in fists or open. Angle your shoulders slightly forward.
2. Perform both the block and the chop simultaneously. Waiting between the block and the hit will leave a gap of time that will allow your opponent to strike.
3. Swing your left forearm to the left to deflect your opponent’s attack, keeping your elbow stable and close to your body. Keep your hand open and firm, using the back of it to make contact and push your opponent’s arm down and away from your body.
4. Raise your right elbow, with hand open, palm down and fingers tight together, and bring the outside edge of your hand across to the right, aiming for your opponent’s right jawline. The amount you need to raise your arm for the chop will depend upon the height of your opponent.
5. Withdraw both arms into a defensive position, elbows bent and close to your body, and resume the ready stance.

Tips & Warnings

• Maintain a balanced stance before, during and after every move.
• Move in toward your opponent for your block and counter-attack; don’t reach or lean, as doing so compromises your balance.
• Never practice full-contact martial arts on another person unless they are wearing protective sparring gear. Use a karate pad or dummy instead, or stop short in your moves.