INTERMEDIATE BLOCKING
THE INSIDE AND RETURN
here we introduce the student to another of the principles used in southern dragon systems in actuality the idea is simplicity itself in reality it is hard to do and takes some practice. we call it the returning principle or the continuous fist. the idea is that any action has an opposite and equal reaction. Ill bet you've heard this before not just in relation to the martial arts.
lets look at the simple process of the inside block. while none of these techniques are done in parts for clarity will have broken the process down into sections
1. The attacker (black shirt) strikes
2. The defender executes inside block
3 The attacker recoils his fist (this is a natural reaction as nobody would leave their fist out)
4. The defender follows the recoiling fist and strikes the attacker.

While this is incredibly simple in concept it will still need to be explained to students as they may easily use it when doing inside block however a true understanding of the technique means it can be applied in many situations not just those in which it is taught.


This strike has come straight out of the block it was part of the same movement

So what's happening
Firstly we are again following natural human dynamics, any strike that is thrown must return. try it yourself execute a kick or a punch and leave your leg or arm out its uncomfortable even stupid. as it invites extra blocks or attacks. What we are doing is using that returning energy to execute our own strike against the opponent. his attack becomes our counter attack. we are afforded a momentary advantage as most people can not strike while returning a strike ( true the trained fighter can strike very rapidly after a strike so as there appears to be no gap between his strikes) but most people especially in real self defense situations are unable to do this. so at the same moment his fist is returning to the cocked or chamber position we are following it in and executing our strike.

As an added bonus the power of our strike is increased by the same amount that your attacker intended to hit you with. This is due to the fact that his backward or returning energy is added to your own forward energy. in effect he or part of him is moving away from you all you are doing is adding to that energy by attaching a blow to it.

We are using the opponents flow not leading his fist but following it in then extending to a strike. all this emphasizes the idea of no gaps as the inside block and the strike are the same movement.

Be aware that it takes some practice to get this right and for it to become a natural idea to the body but well worth the effort once achieved.