Difference between revisions of "Scooping block"

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'''Sukui uke''', the '''scooping block''', is a variant of the [[Downward-fist block|downward-fist block]], which traps an opponent’s leg.  
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'''Sukui uke''', the '''scooping block''', is a variant of the [[Downward-fist block|downward-fist block]], which catches an opponent’s leg as they kick.  
  
 
Like all of defenses, scooping blocks are best when performed in tandem with an [[Evasions|evasion]]. Like a [[Downward-fist block|downward-fist blocks]], scooping blocks are chambered by bringing the blocking hand up by the opposite-side ear, with the palm facing inward. Hold the opposite-side hand open over the exposed [[Kyūsho#Floating_ribs|floating ribs]] on the blocking side, as in the picture below.  
 
Like all of defenses, scooping blocks are best when performed in tandem with an [[Evasions|evasion]]. Like a [[Downward-fist block|downward-fist blocks]], scooping blocks are chambered by bringing the blocking hand up by the opposite-side ear, with the palm facing inward. Hold the opposite-side hand open over the exposed [[Kyūsho#Floating_ribs|floating ribs]] on the blocking side, as in the picture below.  
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Keep in mind that the rules for downward-fist blocks still apply to scooping blocks:
 
Keep in mind that the rules for downward-fist blocks still apply to scooping blocks:
*Do not cross your arms in an X-shape across your chest. Your opponent can push on the outside arm to trap them both.
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*Do not cross your arms in an X-shape across your chest. If you do this, an opponent can push on the outside arm, and trap them both against your chest.
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*Only use scooping blocks to protect the abdomen. Attacks below the waistline are too low for scooping blocks, unless you lean forward and compromise your stability. Also, leaning involves an unnecessary additional energy expenditure to right yourself. Instead, use [[knee block|knee blocks]] to deflect attacks to your legs or groin. A leaning scooping block makes your undefended head easier to reach and abuse.
  
[front-view photos of improper gedan barai, and trapping the arms. ]
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Also, ''immediately'' recover from a scooping block, since a clever opponent can use its twisted final position to set up [[Nikkyō|nikkyō]] or other joint locks.
 
 
*Do not use a scooping block to defend anything below the waistline. These attacks are too low, requiring you to lean forward, which compromises your stance and stability. In addition, leaning involves additional and unnecessary energy expenditure to right yourself. Instead, attacks to the [[Kyūsho#Groin|groin]] or legs should be deflected with [[Knee block|knee blocks]]. Leaning will accentuate your undefended head, making it much easier for the opponent to reach and abuse. Only use scooping blocks to protect your abdomen.
 
 
 
[side-view photo of leaning as a result of blocking too low, and being pulled off-balance ]
 
 
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Latest revision as of 02:09, 3 January 2025

Sukui uke, the scooping block, is a variant of the downward-fist block, which catches an opponent’s leg as they kick.

Like all of defenses, scooping blocks are best when performed in tandem with an evasion. Like a downward-fist blocks, scooping blocks are chambered by bringing the blocking hand up by the opposite-side ear, with the palm facing inward. Hold the opposite-side hand open over the exposed floating ribs on the blocking side, as in the picture below.

[front-view photo of gedan barai chamber]

Pull the blocking arm's elbow down diagonally as far as possible, then curl your hand into a scoop-like hook (pictured below) and swing your forearm out from the elbow. Keep your elbow slightly bent to draw upon the relaxed tension of the Unbendable Arm technique. The opposite-side hand pulls across the abdomen into a chambered position, setting up a counterattack. Counter-rotate your hips, and twist your upper body into the technique. Otherwise, you will push yourself off of the opponent, and compromise your balance.

[picture of scooping block hand]
[video of scooping block, from the front and from the side, fast and slow]

Distancing and timing are critical to prevent the opponent from kicking your exposed, open hand; this is why scooping blocks are typically reserved for intermediate students. The block should complete behind and under the opponent’s foot, just as they finish their kick, so their rechamber pulls their foot into your waiting hand.

Keep in mind that the rules for downward-fist blocks still apply to scooping blocks:

  • Do not cross your arms in an X-shape across your chest. If you do this, an opponent can push on the outside arm, and trap them both against your chest.
  • Only use scooping blocks to protect the abdomen. Attacks below the waistline are too low for scooping blocks, unless you lean forward and compromise your stability. Also, leaning involves an unnecessary additional energy expenditure to right yourself. Instead, use knee blocks to deflect attacks to your legs or groin. A leaning scooping block makes your undefended head easier to reach and abuse.

Also, immediately recover from a scooping block, since a clever opponent can use its twisted final position to set up nikkyō or other joint locks.