Standing+Block+Chop


 * __﻿ __** **Standing Block Chop **[[image:small-standing-block-chop.jpg width="501" height="372" align="right" caption="Photo: http://www.lumberjackworldchampionships.com/lumberjack-competitions.html"]]

Standing block chop is a competition in which a single contestant, using an axe, chops halfway through a vertical standing block of wood, the contestants will then switch sides and continue to chop through the block of wood until they sever the block into two pieces. Axe placement and the amount of power the competitor can put into their swing, combined with having a razor sharp axe will ensure success in this competition.

The goal of the standing block chop competition is to sever the block into two pieces in the shortest amount of time.
 * Goal of Standing Block Chop **

The timer is started on a “GO” command given by the official and typically ends when the block is severed into two pieces or when the severed top half of the block hits the ground. The Block is to be fastened to the top of a stanchion frame supplied by the officials. Properly securing the block of wood to the supplied stanchion is the responsibility of the competitor, and needs to be done properly to ensure the block not falling off leading to disqualification. The first axe strike should be in an upward motion on each side.
 * Rules **

Accuracy coupled with speed and power are the most important traits for a competitor to have in this event. Training involves improving these traits in order to chop through each side of the standing block as quick as possible. The best training would involve practicing the event honing your skills to each competition.
 * Training **