Defining the Double Forearm Block
The Double Forearm Block (Doo Palmok Makgi) is recognized as one of the strongest defensive forms available in Taekwon-Do. This technique is executed using both forearms simultaneously to intercept an attack. Unlike blocks designed to stop a single strike, the fundamental advantage of this technique is its ability to quickly shift one forearm into another block while the second forearm maintains its defensive posture. This block primarily utilizes the inner forearm (Anpalmok) as the blocking tool. The Double Forearm Block is distinct from the Twin Forearm Block (Sang Palmok Makgi), although both employ two forearms for defense. The double forearm block technique is included in advanced patterns such as Yoo-Sin Tul, where a high block with the right double forearm is executed from a walking stance.
Proper Stances and Focusing the Block
The Double Forearm Block is most commonly performed while holding either a walking stance (Gunnun Sogi) or an X-stance (Kyocha Sogi). It can also be performed occasionally from an L-stance or a rear foot stance. When executing the block, the practitioner must ensure that the body maintains a half facing posture toward the target at the moment of the block. The block must be correctly focused to channel maximum power and prevent exposure. The second knuckle of the little finger on the blocking hand must reach the elbow of the other arm at the moment of impact. Furthermore, the blocking hand should form a triangle with the shoulders upon completion of the movement.
Walking Stance Application: Obverse and Reverse
When utilizing the walking stance for the Double Forearm Block, practitioners can execute both obverse and reverse blocks. The principles of Taekwon-Do emphasize that for punching and blocking motions, the hip and abdomen should turn in the same direction as the attacking or blocking tool. The heel of the rear foot should generally be raised slightly off the ground at the start of the motion and then firmly placed on the ground at the moment of impact. This technique is taught in foundational drills, such as the Walking Stance Double Forearm Obverse Block drill, where one foot moves forward into the stance while the double forearm block is executed. Executing the block correctly, rather than in an upward motion, is vital to avoid missing the target.
Training Drills and Execution Sequence
Training drills for the Double Forearm Block are practiced through both forward and backward stepping movements. In a forward stepping block drill, the practitioner moves a foot forward to form the walking stance while simultaneously blocking. The backward stepping block drill involves shifting the foot backward to transition into the blocking stance. For example, in the Walking Stance Double Forearm Obverse Block, moving the right foot forward forms a right walking stance while blocking with the right double forearm. Similarly, the block is executed in the L-Stance Double Forearm Block drill. If the fists are drawn from the hip in an incorrect, upward motion, the block will likely miss the target. The muscles of the hip and abdomen must be utilized fully, and the body must avoid becoming full facing upon impact, as this exposes the lower abdomen.
Role in Complex Patterns and Defense
The Double Forearm Block is incorporated into several advanced patterns. In Kwang-Gae Tul (39 movements), the block appears as a middle block from a walking stance. This technique is taught relatively late in the color belt hierarchy; for instance, the Walking Stance Double Forearm Block is associated with the 5th grade level. While powerful, incorrect execution, such as performing the block in an upward motion instead of a side motion, can lead to missing the target because both fists are drawn incorrectly from the hip. Effective technique requires that the movements are precise and fully utilize the kinetic power principles of Taekwon-Do, including equilibrium and concentration, to produce maximum force.
Distinguishing from Other Paired Blocks
The Double Forearm Block (Doo Palmok Makgi) should be noted alongside other defense techniques using two arms. The Twin Forearm Block (Sang Palmok Makgi) is used to block simultaneous attacks from the front and side, with the side block being the primary defense. Conversely, the Twin Palm Downward Block (Sang Sonbadak Naeryo Makgi) is performed with walking, sitting, and X-stances and is focused on blocking attacks directed below the solar plexus. While the Double Forearm Block typically uses the inner forearm, other dual-arm blocks may use tools like the knife-hand or palm, emphasizing specialized purposes beyond the generic strength of the Double Forearm Block.