Some people believe that this block used to be far more aggressive than the form in which we practice. It's easy to see how, with virtually no modification, by using the side of the fist in a hammerfist form, this block could be used as a strike, perhaps to the side of the head or neck. Indeed, the very word "Uchi" means both "inside" (referring to the inside circular motion of the blocking arm), and "strike". Whether the double meaning or its application to this block is co-incidental, or deliberate, I am not sure, but it is an interesting one to ponder...
Uchi-uke is a great block to follow up with a counter-strike. It is designed to protect your body from about belt-height up to your neck, although there is no reason why you should not use it to protect your entire head. It is a good block to practice with hip rotation because it teaches you the importance of synchronisation for maximum power. It is primarily used to defend against straight punch, although it can easily be adapted for use against most other strikes within the target area.
Technique:
| # | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. | Starting with your left arm in front of you, elbow bent at 90 degrees so that your fist is level with your left shoulder, and your right hand drawn back to your right side. Move your right arm around so that your forearm is across your body level with the elbow of the other hand. Your arm should be twisted so that the back of your wrist is facing upwards, and the back of your fist is just below your left elbow. Imagining your right arm like the hand of a clock, with your right elbow at the centre, rotate your arm 90 degrees upwards until your right fist is level with your right shoulder, whilst keeping your right elbow exactly where it is. You will find that you have a tendency to raise your fist too high, and this is usually because you are trying to block too close to your body. Your right elbow should form a right angle, whilst your upper arm should extend downwards from your shoulder at an angle of 45 degrees in front of you. |
| 2. | As you rotate your arm into position, ensure that you do not rotate your forearm around its long axis. You want to meet your opponent's arm with the soft back of your wrist. It is only at the moment of impact, that you rotate your forearm 90 degrees so that the back of the forearm is facing towards the floor away from you at an angle of 45 degrees. |
| 3. | As you move your right arm into blocking position, you should retract your left arm to your left side. |
Common mistakes to avoid:
- The most common mistake, even among experienced students, is to rotate the forearm too early so that they block with the bony edge of their wrist.
- Many students also block too far to their sides, needlessly moving their arm, and delaying any counters with that hand.
Implementation of the uchi-uke block.
Implementation of the uchi-uke block.
Application of the uchi-uke block.
Front view of the uchi-uke block.
