1st Move Of Heian Shodan

Different Methods of Performing Gedan Barai

In this video, we’re discussing three different methods for executing a stepping gedan barai (downward block) in the 1st move of Heian Shodan.

Method 1: Pivoting on the Heels

This is the method I primarily practice. The movement involves pivoting on your heels while preparing your arms.

• As you drop into the stance, the right arm moves forward like a punch while the left arm has a very small lift.
• I apply minimum effort to the lifting arm, reserving more power for the blocking arm.
• From a relaxed state, you pivot on your heels, with the balls of your feet turning to the left, and prepare the arms.
• Then, you drive off your right leg, keeping your body square, and as you finish the stance, you rotate into a hanmi (side-facing) position for the gedan barai.

This method, focuses on driving from the right leg and then rotating the body.

Method 2: Direct and Fast

This second method is often used in competition because it emphasizes speed.

• Unlike the first method, there is no large rotation. The movement is very direct.
• You still bend your knees and turn your right foot, but the left foot doesn’t move much. The motion is straight to the target.
• The key is to be fast and direct, which is why it’s a popular choice in competitive settings.

Method 3: The “Unusual” Method

This third method is one I don’t practice often, but I find it interesting to see how different dojos operate.

• From a ready position, you look over your left shoulder as your left leg moves out with the heel up.
• As the left leg moves out, the arms prepare, but the body remains facing forward.
• You then drive off the right leg, pushing your body weight forward into a front stance.
• The drive off the right leg feels quite powerful because you set that leg on the initial part of the movement before driving forward.

To summarize, here are the three methods performed slowly:

1. Method 1: Pivot on the heels, drop, and rotate into the block.
2. Method 2: A direct and fast movement without a large rotation.
3. Method 3: Stepping out with the left leg first, preparing the arms, and then driving forward with the right leg.

Which method do you practice?