Over the last few blogs, we’ve been looking at blocks, punches and stances. Let's now look at the combination of punches and blocks using stances (horse and forward). As a beginner, a Karateka should have learnt the proper form for blocking and punching and movements in forward and backward directions using basic stances. The next level of practice to gain agility and variety is to learn to use these blocks and punches in combination, using stances.

For the sake of practice, even though a Karateka knows to block or punch properly, the forward and backward movements using these techniques, especially a combination of blocks and punches is very important to the development of a Karateka, to be as swift and agile in practice as well as in real-time action. These combination movements are used in basic as well as advanced practice of Kihon, Kata and Kumite.

While in the Horse Stance, the blocks and punches are done in a static stance and can be used in any combination. For instance, being in a horse stance, a Karateka can ward off an attack to the head with an upper block and use the other hand to punch the opponent. Similarly, an inner forearm block can be used to ward off a punch while using the other hand to punch the opponent. Practicing these combinations not only helps build accuracy and form, but also helps build speed and agility.

The combination of blocks and punches used in a Forward Stance is generally practiced as forward or backward movements and are used in any combination. For instance, in a forward stance, the Karateka blocks an opponent's forward kick with a downward block. It attacks the opponent with a middle punch. This same combination can be performed in a backward movement also.

These are the combinations of blocks and punches using horse and forward stance. Their movements are used in Kihon, Kata and in Kumite practice, and form the basis of majority of the attack/offensive movements used in Karate practice.

With these new lessons, you can take your Karate knowledge further. Put these blocks, punches, and stances to practice. That's the best way to learn to do them better. The next blog will be on the Back Fist and Hammer Fist.