AOKK Isshin-ryu Traditional: Knee Block / X Block

This is an advanced block. The “X” block is a common technique found in our Isshin ryu kata. The main use of this technique is against a knee strike in range-two personal combat. Many Isshin ryu schools do not practice this technique, but in the AOKK we see it as a necessity part of a student’s training. With the “X” block, you can also trap the leg. Once the leg is trapped you can then throw the opponent.  As you push your elbows outward you increase the blocking area. Lastly, you can turn the block into a strike. Turning your forearm vertical, you can drive the point of the elbow into the thigh. The harder the opponent drives the knee upwards the more pain the knee block inflicts.