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Pinan Godan Manji-Uke Bunkai (video)

In this video we look at an application for the Manji-Uke (simultaneous “lower-block” & “outer block”) found at the end of Pinan / Heian Godan.

This method of intercepting a kick and throwing the enemy is widely taught in karate dojo that have a practical bias. However, it would be fair to say that in the majority of modern dojo this motion is viewed as blocking a kick from the front and a punch from the rear.

Obviously this as many flaws: How do you block something that you can’t see? Why is the stance taken in the kata necessary to block such attacks? Is it really practical to practise for such a contrived and unlikely scenario? The whole thing is rendered pointless unless you get two specific attacks, being delivered at exactly the same time, from mandatory directions. It is just so unlikely that is does not merit serious consideration. Despite how widespread the “double block” application is, even a cursory examination of it shows it has no value.

Seeing the motion as a takedown explains the use of both arms and the stance. The arms block the kick, lift the leg and push the enemy over. The stance ensures the enemy can’t hop on their supporting leg in an attempt to keep their balance. In my view, this is a far better way of looking at the motion both practically and logically.

I hope this video is of interest and I’ll be back with more soon.

All the best,

Iain

PS If you prefer to watch the video on YouTube please click HERE

Practical Kata Bunkai: Manji-Uke in Pinan Godan