Karate: Back Ridge Hand
The Back Ridge Hand, known in Japanese as Haito Uchi (背刀打ち), is an open-hand striking technique in karate. “Haito” (背刀) literally means “back sword” or “ridge hand,” referring to the striking surface, which is the inner edge of the hand from the base of the index finger to the wrist, along the side of the thumb. “Uchi” (打ち) means strike or hit.
This technique is distinct from the knife hand (Shuto Uchi), which uses the outer edge of the hand. Haito Uchi generates power through a whipping or snapping motion, often targeting vulnerable areas. It can be delivered in various directions (straight, circular, downward) depending on the specific application. Its primary uses include: * Targeting Soft Tissue: Effective against areas like the side of the neck, temple, jaw, or groin. * Close-Range Striking: Can be used effectively in close quarters where a full punch might be difficult to execute. * Deception and Flow: The open-hand nature can sometimes be less telegraphed than a clenched fist, and it can flow well into grappling or trapping techniques. * Joint Manipulation: In some applications, it can be used to strike or manipulate joints.
How to Perform the Back Ridge Hand / Haito Uchi
1. Starting Stance
- Begin in a natural, balanced fighting stance, with your weight evenly distributed.
- Keep your hands up in a guard position.
2. Hand Formation
- Open Hand: Keep your fingers together and slightly bent, but not stiff.
- Thumb Tucked: Crucially, tuck your thumb tightly into your palm, against the side of your index finger. This protects the thumb from injury upon impact. The striking surface is the fleshy, bony ridge on the thumb side of your hand.
3. Initiate the Strike
- Body Rotation: Similar to other powerful strikes, initiate the movement with a strong rotation of your hips and torso.
- Arm Path: The arm travels in an arc or a straight line, depending on the specific application and target. For a common horizontal Haito, the arm often comes across the body.
4. Execute the Strike
- Whip/Snap: Extend your arm with a sharp, whipping or snapping motion. The power is generated by the rotational force of your body and the sudden extension of the arm.
- Strike with Ridge: Make contact with the “ridge” of your hand – the area along the side of your thumb and the base of your index finger.
- Target: Aim for the intended target (e.g., side of the neck, temple).
5. Follow Through and Retract
- Immediate Retraction: After impact, quickly retract your hand along the same path back to your guard position. This prevents your hand from being caught and maintains your defensive posture.
- Maintain Balance: Keep your body balanced throughout the entire movement.
Video Reference
For a visual demonstration and further insights into performing the Haito Uchi, you can refer to this instructional video: