Technique of the Week (March 6th, 2007)

From Sensei Lorenzo Aguon
Ueshiro Hawaii Karate Dojo Honolulu, Hawaii

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Incorporating Oshiro Hiji-ate "Backward Elbow Smash"

We see Oshiro Hiji-ate well executed in the last two moves of Pinan Sandan. However, we sometimes neglect how this one technique is with us in almost every move that we do in karate.

Let's take a look at the basic punch. We have a tendency to always focus on the hand thrusting forward, punching from the pocket, tightening the fist on impact, turning the knuckles for good kime. But have you conciously thought of the other hand coming back into the pocket?

When alternating left and right punches, imagine the hand that is out thrusting back into the pocket as a strong backward elbow smash. Now take a look at all the techniques that you do from Fukyugata 1 and up like head blocks, downblocks, side squat punches, chest blocks, etc...they all have Oshiro Hiji-ate in common.

It is very important for punches, head blocks, chest blocks, and down block techniques to come out fast and strong. But it is also equally important for the other hand coming back into the pocket to be equally as fast and strong.

The next time to you work with a partner to train punches. Have them hold a striking pad in front for you to punch. Then have them stand behind you and do the same exercise. Now have them place the target where your elbow would hit. Now you will begin to think more of the strike coming back and not just the punch going out.

By consciously thinking of driving the opposing hand hard into the pocket as a strong backward elbow smash, you will see an even greater return in power and speed on most of your techniques.

Domo Arigato,


Sensei Lorenzo Aguon
Ueshiro Hawaii Karate Dojo