Defining the Hooking Block Mechanism
The Hooking Block (Golcho Makgi) is a distinctive defensive technique that requires a minimum amount of effort from the defender, unlike other blocking methods. The primary goal of this block is to allow the defender’s opposite hand or foot an immediate response for counter-attacking. This technique is typically performed using the palm (Sonbadak), as it is usually the most effective tool for this specific maneuver. The palm is formed by bending all fingers slightly toward the palm to strengthen the hand. The method of blocking requires the blocking tool to reach the target in a crucial arc motion.
Stances and Positional Execution
The Palm Hooking Block can be utilized from nearly all stances. However, the walking stance (Gunnun Sogi) is commonly used. It is also practiced from the L-stance and sitting stance. During execution, the defender must maintain a half facing posture toward the opponent. Failing to adopt the half facing posture and instead using a full facing posture is incorrect, as it results in the blocking tool stopping short of the point of focus. Furthermore, the block should intercept the attack such that the opponent’s attacking forearm or outer tibia is targeted.
Outside Versus Inside Block Strategy
The Palm Hooking Block can be performed as both an inside block and an outside block. However, utilizing the outside block is strongly advised because it provides the best assurance of blocking the opponent’s other free hand. This is a critical tactical advantage, as it prohibits the opponent from utilizing their free limbs in a combination attack. While an inside block is possible, it is not as effective as the outside hooking block. The risk of the opponent countering with their opposite hand or foot necessitates special caution when performing an inside block, a theory which is also applicable to the hooking kick.
Precision and Finishing Details
The specific physical alignment at the moment of impact is essential for the Palm Hooking Block. When using the palm, the elbow should be bent about 25 degrees outward. Simultaneously, the wrist should be bent slightly inward at the moment of the block. The palm is highly effective because it is considered the best tool for increasing the chances of making a successful grab of the opponent’s attacking limb. After the block has been executed, the movement often flows immediately into a twisting motion to put the opponent off balance. Grasping is usually executed immediately after the hooking block, aiming to throw the opponent by twisting and pulling the attacking hand or foot.
Training Context and Related Techniques
The Palm Hooking Block is introduced in the training schedule at the 5th grade level (Blue Stripe). Drills for this block often involve continuous motion, as seen in the walking stance palm obverse hooking block. The movement is initiated by keeping the back forearms crossed in front of the rib cage, placing the blocking one on the other. Other tools can also be used for the hooking block, including the outer forearm, knife-hand, and back hand. When executed with the under forearm, the purpose and method are identical to the palm block, but the wrist is not bent at the moment of block. When performed with the knife-hand, the elbow is slightly bent inward. The Palm Hooking Block helps develop the necessary speed and precision to ensure the block becomes a conditioned reflex.