Move of the Week: blocks

The last exercise in our eight-part weekly series of boxing workouts.

Make sure your arms are protecting your face. Jeffrey Biteng / The National
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George Lusadan, a former professional Thai boxing fighter from the Philippines based at MMA Fitness in Tecom, demonstrates the last exercise in our eight-part weekly series of boxing workouts. Do this move alone or incorporate it into your own fitness routine.

Leg block: This move is for blocking kicks. Start at fighting position with the right hand guarding your chin, which should be kept in. Your weight should be centred. When your opponent kicks with his right foot, you should block with your left leg, so it's shin to shin. Lift leg and twist so the shin is facing opponent.

Backwards block: Blocking is dictated by the opponent. During leg blocks, arms should be protecting the face because some opponents will kick the face. Step back one step at a time.

Side block: Start at fighting position. Twist your body, focus on where your opponent is going and turn sideways accordingly.

Benefits: All muscles but mainly core and shins.

Tips:

• Use a punching bag to get power beforehand so your legs are used to the impact and pain.

• Stretch first.

• Start slowly before going into heavy kicks.