Actually, the block begins twisted to the side so the body is first turned away from the attacker and then the block deflects any punch/jab *to the face* while the other hand strikes the attacker/opponent's neck (which isn't even allowed in WTF sparring so this move is basically null and void unless attacked at which point it's unlikely anyone would use a hammerfist or basic high punch on the street ). I have seen the block done over the head with the elbow back and wrist bent (palm almost facing upwards) but our instructor described it differently...maybe because the move is only used in forms...not sure. Kelly
Less restrictive rules? Ok, but I don't know of a single sport fighting organization that allows elbows to the neck.
The move in kanku dai is done from a lower, more natural position (as far as I know it anyway) and is done very quickly with minimum preparation. It's just a quick push upwards to push someone's fist out of the way followed by good smack in the neck. As far as silly moves in kata go, I'd say this is one of the more sensible ones. I think the application is pretty clear cut. I've tried to animate this gif of how I do it - it's fairly quick and simple.
This is why I love MAP. Before now, I'd never heard of Burmese Boxing, or Lethwei. This is a smidge of what the Wikipedia has to say about it: Mmm biting and gouging, maybe Mike Tyson should check this out? Well thanks for the info Mav.
Don't use as a chop to the neck. Oh, and don't use it as a high block against a downward strike either.
Just to be clear, I was referring to this... (bold added by moi) The point I was trying to make was that strikes to the neck are not allowed in sparring competitions in 99.99% of competitive organizations, with Lethwei being the possible exception. Punch somebody in the throat in t3h d34d1y str33tz if you will, but it doesn't belong in sport fighting, IMHO.
This discussion has actually spawned good conversation between my son and I about the practical uses of the forms. Granted many of the moves cannot be used in WTF sparring but we've enjoyed learning about the theory even if it's not reality at this point. It's exciting to have TKD "coming together" for us. Like all of learning it's gathering bits and pieces of the puzzle and then fitting them together to see the bigger picture. I do like this move, it flows well and is very graceful. The Taegeuk form it's used in (sahjang) is said to represent Thunder (Jin) and the move does remind me of thunder...starts out slowly and ends with power . Kelly