When I first started training in Taekwondo, I quickly realized that blocking is more than just a defense mechanism—it’s a fundamental skill that every practitioner must master.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned martial artist, understanding the different Taekwondo block techniques is crucial for effective sparring, self-defense, and overall performance.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through all the essential Taekwondo blocks techniques you need to know. From the basic blocks that protect your body to the more advanced ones that can be used strategically in combat, I’ll explain each one and give you tips on how to perfect them.
So, whether you’re working on your first Taekwondo forms or preparing for your next tournament, this guide has everything you need to improve your blocking skills.
Why Are Taekwondo Block Techniques So Important?
At the heart of every great Taekwondo fighter is a solid defense. While many people focus on kicks and punches, blocking techniques are just as critical for your success.
Blocks not only help protect you from attacks, but they also set you up for effective counterattacks. Mastering these blocks will make you more versatile in sparring, enhance your timing, and give you the confidence to stand your ground against stronger opponents.
As I’ve trained over the years, I’ve learned that being able to block properly doesn’t just prevent hits—it actually opens up opportunities for offensive strikes.
Once you understand the mechanics of each block, you’ll notice an improvement in your ability to control the flow of a match.
The Basic Taekwondo Block Techniques You Must Master
Before diving into advanced techniques, it’s important to have a solid understanding of the basic Taekwondo blocks.
These are the foundation of all your defensive maneuvers, and practicing them will help you develop the control, timing, and precision needed in higher-level techniques.
1. Low Block (Arae Makgi)
- How to Perform: Begin in a standing position with your hands at your sides. Bring one arm down and outward, with the palm facing down, while the other hand stays near your waist. The low block protects against attacks aimed at your lower body.
- Why It’s Important: The low block is essential for defending against low kicks and attacks aimed at the stomach or lower. It’s a simple yet powerful technique that sets you up for both counterattacks and defensive positioning.
2. Middle Block (Momtong Makgi)
- How to Perform: Start in a ready stance, then bring both arms up and across your body, as if you were hugging a barrel. The middle block deflects attacks aimed at your chest and torso.
- Why It’s Important: This block is a key part of your defense against punches and strikes aimed at your midsection. It’s one of the most commonly used blocks in both forms and sparring.
3. High Block (Eolgul Makgi)
- How to Perform: Position your arm in a striking position and move it upward, blocking against attacks to your head or upper body. The high block is often used to deflect punches, kicks, or weapons aimed at your head.
- Why It’s Important: The high block protects against high attacks, such as head punches or overhead strikes. This block is crucial for maintaining control in close-range sparring.
4. Inside Block (An Makgi)
- How to Perform: Start in a stance, and with a swift motion, move one arm inward from the outside of your body, bringing it toward your torso in an arc-like motion. This block is commonly used against strikes to the ribs.
- Why It’s Important: The inside block is great for stopping strikes from your opponent’s right or left side, protecting your torso and helping you stay balanced during fast exchanges.
5. Outside Block (Bakkat Makgi)
- How to Perform: With your arms in a ready position, swing one arm outward from the inside of your body to block an incoming strike from the side. This block is used to stop punches and other attacks aimed at the side of your body.
- Why It’s Important: The outside block is versatile and essential for defending against attacks coming from your opponent’s right or left. It helps you keep your stance solid while deflecting incoming hits.
6. Double Block (Doo Makgi)
- How to Perform: Begin with both hands in a guarding position. Simultaneously execute two blocks, one with each arm—typically a high block and a low block at the same time.
- Why It’s Important: The double block is a powerful defense against two simultaneous attacks. It teaches you to defend from multiple angles at once, which is crucial when facing multiple attackers or a skilled opponent.
7. X-Block (Kyocha Makgi)
- How to Perform: Cross both arms in front of you to form an “X” shape. One arm will be positioned high while the other remains lower. The X-block is often used to defend against downward or diagonal strikes.
- Why It’s Important: The X-block is particularly useful for defending against strikes coming from an angle or from an opponent with more reach. It’s a versatile technique that helps you maintain control during intense sparring.
8. Knife-Hand Block (Sonkal Makgi)
- How to Perform: Position one hand like a knife (with fingers together) and block an incoming attack with the edge of your hand. This block is used primarily in close-quarters combat.
- Why It’s Important: The knife-hand block is particularly effective for defending against strikes aimed at your upper body or head. It’s great for quick reactions and can be used to open up offensive opportunities.
Integrating Blocks with Kicks
- How to Perform: After executing a block, quickly transition into a kick. This transition can be as simple as moving from a low block into a front kick, or from an inside block into a roundhouse kick.
- Why It’s Important: Combining blocks with offensive techniques like kicks is essential in sparring. It allows you to maintain the offensive momentum while still defending yourself from attacks.
Timing Your Blocks
- How to Perform: Focus on the timing of your blocks. Don’t just block for the sake of blocking—anticipate your opponent’s moves and block at the right moment, then immediately counterattack.
- Why It’s Important: Timing is everything in Taekwondo. An effective block requires both precision and timing to ensure you deflect the attack without leaving yourself open for a counterstrike.
Conclusion: Mastering Blocks for Ultimate Success
Mastering all the Taekwondo blocks techniques is an ongoing journey that requires consistent practice, patience, and focus. As you train, remember that blocks are not just about defense—they’re about controlling the rhythm of the fight, protecting yourself, and setting up offensive strikes.
The more you practice these techniques, the more natural they’ll feel during sparring. And over time, you’ll notice that your blocking techniques will become second nature, allowing you to focus on strategy, timing, and precision. Keep refining your technique, stay consistent, and you’ll become a more well-rounded Taekwondo practitioner.
So, whether you’re preparing for your next competition or looking to improve your skills in class, keep these Taekwondo block techniques in mind. With dedication, you’ll be able to block with confidence and turn every defensive move into an offensive opportunity.
Disclaimer: All images used in this guide are sourced from various YouTube channels like Black Eagle Martial Arts, Lupo Taekwondo, and TaekwondoShawn are included solely for informational purposes. Full credit and rights belong to their respective owners.
