Blocking techniques are intended to stop an opponent or opponents’ attack(s). This may be achieved by redirecting the attack away from its intended target, by stopping it outright or by taking control of it. Some “blocks” are also merely for readiness – guarding blocks for example may be used to actually intercept an attack but can also be used simply to be prepared for an attack. Some blocks are intended to damage or destroy the attacker’s attacking tool, or an associated joint.