I'm curious how you all teach and implement blocking, if at all.
I am of the opinion that blocking is an intermediate-advanced technique. To me, basic boxing and kickboxing skills should be learned before before blocking. Once you become better at timing, distance, parrying(yes, I think you should parry before you block), footwork, and head movement THEN you should be able to block with some proficiency.
I commonly use inward and outward blocks when sparring(with and without padding). Occasionally i'll use a downward. Most of the time I check with the shin. I've never really used up blocks.
Most blocks can be used from the basic boxing position.
I will admit, though, that once the sparring partner reaches a certain level I no longer find them AS useful. It just becomes another tool. Like a parry and other combat movements. But, solid blocks to the arms(or blocking with the elbows lol), especially to the radial nerves and such are very satisfying.