The Low Block (Gedan Barai/Gedan Barai Uke) is a primary technique that has many applications. It can be defensive or an offensive technique.
- The technique starts with the blocking hand starting at the elbow, palm up so that you can see all the fingers.
- The other arm is straight and initially deflects the attack.
- The blocking arm then scrapes down the other arm until it is extended straight in front of the shoulder.
- The blocking elbow is one fist distance from the rib cage.
- The palm is rotated down with a snapping motion at the last second as the block meets the target.
- The pulling hand (hikite) is pulled back and rests above the hip bone.