Blocking
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.
It is better to have less thunder in the mouth and more lightning in the hand. - Apache Proverb