Haitō - ridge hand
🔹 WHAT is HAITŌ?
Haitō (拝刀) literally means "sword hand"or "ridge hand" in Japanese.
It refers to a specific striking technique used in martial arts like Karate, Aikido, and Kobudo. Where the inner edge of the hand, near the thumb (the "ridge"), is used to strike an opponent.
🔹 KEA CHARACTERISTICS
Striking Surface:
The inner ridge of the hand, between the base of the index finger and the wrist, opposite the thumb side.
Target Areas:
Common targets include the neck (carotid artery), temple, jaw, and groin.
Form:
The fingers are extended and tightly together, with the thumb bent inward, but not sticking out.
Motion:
Can be delivered in an inward, outward, or downward arc, similar to a knife-hand (shutō), but from the opposite side of the hand.
In Karate, the technique is often referred to as Haitō Uchi, meaning "ridge hand strike".
Inward Haitō Uchi:
Comes across the body, striking with the thumb side of the hand.
Outward Haitō Uchi:
Less common, but used to strike away from the body.
🔹 USAGE in KATA and SELF-DEFENSE
Seen in kata like Bassai Dai and Heian Godan (in some Karate styles).
Effective for self-defense due to its speed, surprise, and targeting of vulnerable areas.
Often follows a blocking technique or precedes a grappling move.
🔹 COMMON MISTAKES
Thumb positioning:
If the thumb sticks out, it can easily be injured.
Lack of wrist alignment:
Can cause injury or reduce effectiveness.
Loose fingers:
Reduces impact and increases risk of injury.
O
S
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