Understanding The Purpose Of Basic Martial Arts Moves

Learning and mastering the martial arts involves becoming proficient at numerous skills that extend beyond the basics. For example, you'll learn how to approach opponents, and the importance of angling your body properly; you'll learn about range, and when striking exposes you to a counterstrike; and you'll learn how to compartmentalize your moves in order to execute them with as much efficiency and precision as possible. Along the way, it's easy to lose sight of the reasons for performing the basics.

Below, we'll revisit throws, blocks, strikes, and other moves. We'll explain why they are performed, and describe when each might be warranted. Beginning martial artists will find the following details helpful; experienced MA students should consider them to be a reminder. Picking up tips online can help to supplement taking karate classes in Denver, or anywhere else.

Throws are meant to cause your opponent to become off-balance. This might entail lifting him from the ground, or simple pulling him past you. It is a common technique used by those studying judo.

There are many types of throws. The use of each is based upon what you want to achieve and the opportunity that presents itself. For instance, a leg throw involves hooking the other person's leg with your own and lifting them off-balance, causing them to fall. A shoulder throw involves tossing your opponent over your shoulder, a technique that can be performed while standing, bending, or kneeling.

The purpose of a block is to prevent a strike from making contact, or minimizing its effect. Nearly all martial arts, from karate to Taekwondo, incorporate blocks as a key defensive move. As with throws, there are several types, each of which are performed based on the opponent's blow.

High blocks are used to fend off strikes that are traveling downward. Low blocks parry blows that are aimed at your midsection. Inside and outside blocks can be used to prevent the same blows, but have varying effects on the attacker. For instance, an inside block fends off the strike by moving the striking hand or leg away from the defender's body. An outside block accomplishes the same result, but also turns the attacker's body in the process, exposing him to a counterstrike.

Strikes are meant to harm or incapacitate your opponent. Most of the popular martial arts, including karate, kung fu, and Taekwondo, incorporate strikes as a major component of the styles. Depending on the circumstances and the art, they can be delivered with the hands, legs, elbows, and even the head.

Not all strikes performed with the hands are delivered with a fist. Some are performed using the fleshy side of the hand or with the palm. In certain arts, some strikes are delivered with the pointed tips of the fingers.

Kicks may also be delivered in different ways. You can attack your opponent's side, bringing your foot sideways. Or, you can simply extend your foot in front of you.

Knee strikes, head butts, and strikes delivered with the elbows and shoulders also have particular uses. However, it is worth noting that some sports do not allow them.

Takedowns are performed in order to bring your opponent to the ground. Your opponent may be kneeling or standing at the time. Although takedowns and throws have similar goals, both are distinct in their execution. The former are performed by advancing on your opponent while the latter can be executed without an advancing motion. Takedowns are used in judo, Aikido, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and many other martial arts.

There are a few types of takedowns, including leg trips as well as single and double leg takedowns. Leg trips are executed using a single leg. Single and double leg takedowns are performed by grabbing one or both of your opponent's legs, forcing him off his feet.

The martial arts style you're learning likely incorporates at least one type of each basic move described above. Learn to identify circumstances in which they provide you with the best leverage against your opponent.