The Soto Uke, or outside block, is considered to be a versatile block in GKR Karate. It is very similar to the Uchi Uke in that it protects the body can be raised to guard the head. Performing this technique is very simple. Start in a standing position with your left arm out to act as a guard. Take your right arm and raise it outwards so that your forearm is in a vertical position and your upper arm is in a horizontal position. The soft part of your forearm should be facing forwards. Take your right arm and swing it forwards in an arc, while simultaneously rotating your hips in the same direction. After contact has been made, one should turn their arm so that the soft part of the forearm is now facing towards them. This provides you with a counter attack such as a back fist to your opponents face. As you rotate your right arm forward, you should draw your left guard back at the same time.
Just like the Uchi Uke, this block can also be used as a strike depending on the situation. The objective is to parry your opponents strike across your body. Here are some tips to keep in mind that should help:
1. Resist the urge to turn your hips too early. The timing can take a little while to get down.
2. Lower your arm as you bring your arm across. Keeping your arm too high exposes the area under your armpit.
3. Do not swing your arm too far. You only need to block the attack past your body and that’s it.
4. It is very important to not rotate your forearm until after the attack has been blocked. Blocking with the hard part of your forearm can result in significant damage to you.