Defining the Pressing Block Technique
The Pressing Block (Noollo Makgi) is a specific defensive technique used exclusively against a low attack. The primary, distinguishing purpose of this block is to check, rather than break, the opponent's attacking foot. The block is executed utilizing the palm (Sonbadak) as one of the primary blocking tools. To perform this technique, the palm is formed by bending all fingers slightly toward the palm to strengthen the hand. Other tools used for pressing blocks include the twin palm, forefist, and X-fist. The Palm Pressing Block is characterized by a dual purpose: it is valuable not only for defensive application but also for developing muscle control and breath regulation exercises.
Execution, Motion, and Primary Target
The Palm Pressing Block is always accompanied by a Palm Upward Block (Sonbadak Ollyo Makgi). This pairing creates a combined action that can effectively block two targets simultaneously. When executing the block, both elbows must be bent slightly outward. The technique is unique because the instep is the only target for the pressing action. During the execution, both palms must pass each other in front of the umbilicus, with the blocking hand performing a reverse block when moving forward. The block itself is executed from a preparatory position where both palms face the defender. This ensures the correct movement path and maximal coverage of the low target area.
Stance and Training Context
This block is chiefly executed from a walking stance (Gunnun Sogi) or a low stance (Nachuo Sogi). The low stance is often deliberately used when performing the block in a slow motion, specifically for the purpose of developing muscles or breath control. For instance, a drill involves moving the foot forward slowly to form a low stance while simultaneously blocking with the palm. The forward stepping block drill requires the practitioner to move the left foot forward into a left walking stance while blocking with the left palm. This is immediately followed by a front strike with the opposite knife-hand, demonstrating the immediate transition from defense to counter-attack. The palm block, when employed in a walking stance, permits both obverse and reverse blocks.
Errors and Strategic Considerations
A crucial mistake when performing the Palm Pressing Block is allowing the blocking hand to become parallel to the opponent’s attacking tool, especially if the elbow is kept straight. This incorrect positioning risks missing the target. Since the block is performed at low level and can involve slow motions for training, attention must be paid to maintaining a safe posture. The block is designed to check the attack, not necessarily stop it with crushing force, making it an efficient, low-effort defense. The palm is also considered an excellent tool for increasing the chances of making a successful grab of the opponent's limb after the block, which can transition into throwing techniques.