Hangetsu Dachi Half Moon Stance Video
Hangetsu Dachi (Half Moon Stance)
At SKO we start using hangetsu dachi at brown belt. This stance is used for the Shotokan kata Hangetsu and the stance is a variation of sanchin dachi (hourglass stance).
The practice of this karate stance varies from Dojo to Dojo, so please check with your Sensei.
This is the way we practice Hangetsu Dachi at SKO.
Hangetsu Dachi (half moon stance)
1. Weight distribution for Hangetsu Dachi is central, so 50% of your weight on your front leg and 50% on the back leg.
2. Feet should be hip width to shoulder width apart and this width will decrease as you advance in your karate.
3. Stance length depends on the length of your legs, but one shoulder width and a half is a good guide to start.
4. Front foot should be turned in slightly and back foot should be facing forward as much as possible.
5. There are two hip positions with half moon stance, they are side on for blocking and turning into the punch when punching reverse punch.
6. Roll the hips up and try not to let your hips stick out.
7. Keep your back straight
8. Do not push your knees in or out, both knees should be bent over the inside of the big toes.
9. If you take a straight line from both big toes, it will form a triangle which the apex of, should be approximately 5 to 6 foot in front of your face.
10. Tighten the inside of the thighs.
Hangetsu dachi should be practiced consistently, the stance should always be the same length. Whether you are attending a karate dojo, or learning karate at home, I recommend you break all techniques down and repeat again and again. For stances it’s a good idea to hold the position for a minute or two and then change to a different stance and repeat.