Strike, Block, Kick

Targets, shields, and combos. Form is the power.

Pads and foam only. Strike the target, then hands come home. No sparring without the safety check.

• 1Dragon's Fiery StrikeReady stance. A series of punches or forearm strikes. Hit, then guard.

  Set up

  A foam bag or target at the right height.

  Do this

  Ready stance. A series of punches or forearm strikes. Hit, then guard.

  Done when · Strikes hit the target and the hands come back to guard. Eight strikes, or a count of 1-2 that stays on the target. Little warriors go slow.

  Little: Slow, gentle contacts.

  Older: A count: 1-2, strike, block.

  Play this drill
• 2Samurai Shield BlockOn “Incoming!” lift and angle the shield, then back to ready.
• 3Warrior Kick ZoneFront or side kick, then a soft landing with a bent knee.
• 4Ninja Block & CounterBlock an imaginary attack, then counter with a punch or kick.
• 5Guardian's Kick & PivotKick, then pivot on one foot to face a new direction. Balance all the way.
• 6Gladiator's Double StrikeTwo strikes in one motion — two punches, or punch then kick. Speed with aim.
• 7Champion's Defensive BlockGuard, block the toss, then secure the ball with both hands.
• 8Viking's Overhead StrikeBring the sword down on a line, body aligned, controlled.
• 9Ranger's Side KickStable stance. Side kick toward the target. Reach, then put the leg back down in balance.
• 10Titan's Rapid FireBlock, strike, kick, repeat. Fluid, not wild.