[3.3.4] Naihanchin Section-3 Bunkai (Counter to a Lead Hand Punch)(Variation-2)

[Source:] Isshin-ryu Karateka

[Rating:] Moderate Bunkai

Information: This variation came from watching two female students struggle with the ridge-hand strike to the front of the attacker’s throat. They kept reaching around their training partners neck on the backside. With this slight variation of the bunkai, the throw can still be facilitated.

Part-1 Attacker: Steps Forward and Lead Hand Punches

• Steps forward with the left leg and punches with the (RH).

Part-2 Defender: Block, Crossover Heel Kick, Throw

• Forearm block the attacker’s punch.
• Crossover heel kick to slow the attacker’s forward progress.

Rule: Strike low to attack high.

Note: The crossover heel kick can be used for more than simple strike. Striking an attacker’s thigh as they charge, can shut down their attack. Placing the foot in an attacker’s hip crease can stop their forward progress. This is not always a kick. In this instance it is used as a distraction. Stopping the opponent’s advance with the crossover heel kick allows you to trap the attacker’s arm setting up your counterattack.

Rule: You need two points of contact to maintain your balance.

Note: In this example the two points would be the one foot on the ground and the trap of the attacker’s wrist.

• Trap the attacker’s punch with your rear hand.

Note: If you’re skillful, the attacker’s arm can be placed in a crossbody arm-bar. You must rotate the attacker’s arm until the opponent’s elbow is pressed into your chest. When you arch your back for the throw the lock can be applied simultaneously.

• Step behind the attacker as your move into the horse- stance or kiba-dachi.

Note: The foot that delivered the Crossover Heel Kick steps down and the lead foot steps behind the attacker to make the throw.

• Wrap your hand around the back of the attacker’s neck and grasp the attacker’s chin.
• Twist the attacker’s head around and throw the attacker with Tani-otoshi or Valley Drop.

Note: Some Isshin-ryu instructors may believe that this variation does not truly represent the movements within the kata. I disagree. The movements are still in line with what is demonstrated within the form. The arm can be straightened, as it is in what we call the ridge-hand, when the twist of the neck is completed. This bunkai is simply outside the accepted norm. Sometimes thinking outside the box opens up new possibilities. The goal is to throw the attacker to the ground and in the end does it matter how we get to that point.

[End Series]