Defining the X-Fist Rising Block
The X-Fist Rising Block (Kyocha Joomuk Chookyo Makgi) is a specific type of rising block (Chookyo Makgi). The primary purpose of the rising block is to intercept an opponent’s hand, foot, or weapon attack directed toward the head. It is also frequently used against a punch or side piercing kick aimed at the bridge of the nose and the area above. This block is categorized as a high block, meaning the fist or fingertip must reach the defender’s eyes level at the moment of block. The X-Fist block, which utilizes crossed fists, is considered particularly powerful when used against a downward strike delivered with a pole or hand technique.
Execution and Positioning Requirements
The fundamental mechanics of the X-Fist Rising Block require the wrists to be crossed at the center of the forehead at the moment of the block. If the wrists are crossed in front of the bridge of the nose instead of the forehead, the execution is incorrect, exposing a vital spot. A basic principle for any rising block is that the defender must maintain a full facing posture toward the opponent at the moment of the block, especially when using stances like walking, sitting, parallel, close, one-leg, diagonal, or X-stances. Furthermore, when performing any block, the blocking tool should reach its target and form a triangle with the shoulders. The block is executed with the X-Fist (Kyocha Joomuk).
Stances and Training Applications
The X-Fist Rising Block is most commonly employed from the walking, sitting, parallel, and X-stances. It can also occasionally be performed from a close or one-leg stance. The X-Stance (Kyocha Sogi) itself is a convenient stance often used for blocking and serves as a preparatory posture for the next maneuver. Training drills emphasize proper preparation and transition. For instance, the X-Fist Rising Block drill can be executed from a walking stance, moving forward while blocking, then immediately followed by a high punch. This block is specifically associated with the 4th grade level (Red Stripe) in Taekwon-Do training schedules.
Related Techniques and Dual-Arm Blocks
The X-Fist Rising Block is closely related to the X-Knife-Hand Rising Block (Kyocha Sonkal Chookyo Makgi); both the blocking method and principle are the same. However, the X-knife-hand offers the added advantage of being effective for grabbing the attacking tool immediately after blocking. The X-Fist is also used for middle and low blocks. For example, the X-Fist Downward Block (Kyocha Joomuk Naeryo Makgi) is executed from walking and X-stances. The fundamental structure of the X-Fist Rising Block leverages its crossed position for superior strength, particularly when used against force delivered in a downward path.
Avoiding Errors and Advanced Context
In Taekwon-Do, utilizing the X-Fist Rising Block requires attention to detail to avoid common errors. Improper crossing of the wrists, as noted, exposes the forehead. Also, the force must be concentrated; failing to utilize the reaction force generated by pulling the opposite fist to the hip or shoulder will reduce the technique's power. This block is integrated into advanced patterns; for instance, in Yoo-Sin Tul, the X-Fist is used for a pressing block followed immediately by a rising block with an X-knife-hand in a continuous motion. Furthermore, the block is used in specialized self-defense contexts, such as defending against a downward strike with a pole.