As a kid, I loved watching old movies featuring knights in shining armor—classics like Ivanhoe were my favorite. The most thrilling scenes were always the jousts: two heavily armored warriors on horseback, each armed with a shield and lance, racing toward each other with the goal of unseating their opponent. Even today, I enjoy events like Medieval Times and the Tournament of Kings at Excalibur Las Vegas, where live jousts bring that medieval excitement to life.
In our modern mindset, we often separate defense and offense into distinct categories. Just look at American football—one lineup for defense, another for offense. When we hear “defense,” we often picture bracing behind a metal shield, taking the hit, and hoping to withstand the impact. When we hear “offense,” we envision delivering a powerful, decisive blow. These associations are not incorrect, but they can influence how we think about martial arts—and particularly how we view defensive technique in Kempo.
Mind Games: Don’t Block—Strike the Attack
One mental shift that can revolutionize your martial arts is this: Don’t just block—strike the attack. That subtle distinction transforms your defense into offense. Instead of passively intercepting a blow, aim to destroy the limb delivering it. Strike the wrist, elbow, or shin with enough intent to damage or disable. When your opponent offers you an opening, take it with force. Leave a mark. Make their attacking weapon ineffectual.
The Pitfall of Uncommitted Defense
Many students fall into the trap of treating blocks as half-hearted movements. Too often, rote memorization of drills leads to lifeless blocks during partner practice. There’s an unspoken assumption that your partner will allow the block to succeed. That’s dangerous thinking. In a real confrontation, an uncommitted block will not save you. You must mean it. Commit your energy and focus. A strong block can shake an attacker’s confidence—and protect you in the process.
The Power of a Committed Attack
This is why I encourage students to hit the strike. Treat the attacker’s arm or leg like a target, not just an obstacle. Put your weight, your motion, and most importantly, your intent into the movement. This mindset shift alone can elevate your technique. Every defensive move should be made with the same intensity and purpose as an offensive one.
Unlike sports, where separate squads handle offense and defense, your body must be a one-team army. Your hands and feet serve both roles. The defensive block is also an attack—on your opponent’s limb, balance, and confidence. Embrace this mindset, and your Kempo will become sharper, stronger, and far more effective.
Do you have a story about blocking an attack but still getting hit? I know I do. Share your experience in the comments. We all learn from our mistakes—and from each other.
