Technique of the Week (October 23rd 2011)

From Sensei Ron Marchetti,Shihan
Ueshiro Cocoa Shorin-Ryu Karate Dojo

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Pinan Sandan

Onegai Shimasu Hanshi, Kyoshi, Sensei and SRKUSA Deshi

Pinan Sandan offers difficult techniques including the final two moves which are a combination backward elbow smash and over the shoulder upper punch. The correct Okinawan terminology for these moves is Ushiro hiji-ate (backward elbow smash) and Jodan Zuki (Upper Punch). These moves are developed to defend against very close attacks, and the opponent could be grabbing or hugging the defender. The most important part of these moves is to place the feet or foundation in the correct direction using a proper Neckoashi-Dachi (Cat Stance). In Pinan Sandan the direction is oriented to a “corner” or “diagonal”. After the correct Cat Stance is achieved then the upper punch along with the backward elbow smash can be executed. The Deshi must have sufficient travel/distance with the elbow and fist to hit the target which is the ribs or solar plexus (elbow) and nose (punch). The punch over reaches to get the necessary travel. After the punch is delivered the fist and arm snap back so that the arm is at the chest. The direction of the elbow smash and punch should be the same direction as the feet in the diagonal stance so that the foundation and elbow smash with punch can work together for an effective technique. Achieving the stance then quickly transitioning to the elbow smash and punch is important to achieve sufficient power. Practicing slow motion and with the aid of a mirror is helpful.

Additional information can be found as follows:

Neckoashi-Dachi: Pg 64 Fig 6, Essence of Okinanwan Karate-Do

Backward Elbow Smash and Over Shoulder Punch: Pg 78, 79, Fig 39 Essence of Okinawan Karate-Do

Pinan Sandan: Pg 133, 134 Fig 31, 32, Essence of Okinawan Karate-Do

Pinan Sandan: Ueshiro Shorin-Ryu Karate USA Kata Guide 2000

Domo Arigato,

Sensei Ron Marchetti