In the Forearm Intercept, how should you position your arms to intercept?

• A. Step back with arms extended
• B. Rotate your hips
• C. Step forward bending your elbows bringing forearms up to intercept near shoulder/above bicep
• D. Drop your guard

Answer: (C)

To intercept with the forearms you meet the attack with a strong, compact barrier. Step forward into the strike and keep your elbows bent, lifting your forearms up to about shoulder height—near the shoulder or slightly above the biceps. This positions a broad, solid blocking surface in the line of attack, allowing you to catch and redirect instead of letting the strike pass through. The bent elbows create a stable frame that absorbs contact and protects your head and torso, while the forearms set you up to guide the opponent off line and toward a safer position. Quick control and transition afterward are possible because the arms remain in a ready, protective stance.

Stepping back would increase distance and reduce your intercepting capability; simply rotating your hips doesn’t put your forearms in the right blocking position; dropping your guard leaves you exposed to the threat.