At first glance haito zuki, or ridge-hand strike is awesome. But is it?
In the clip Kagawa Sensei steps in and to the side of the line of attack of his opponent, i.e., cooperative stationary target. The haito zuki is cool because it attacks the attacker from behind even though Kagawa faces him from the front. But is this practical for self-defense application?
The Art of War asserts all warfare is based on deception. The first time I watched the haito zuki clip it surprised me and in that sense, I suppose it has some practical value as a surprise feint or distraction for a more powerful counter attack.
On the other hand, I think training haito with the intent of surprising an opponent or sparring partner may actually telegraph the intent to surprise, as if to say, hey, I'm going to be sneaky right now. Ready? Here it comes! But used judiciously haito zuki might be effective.
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