Han Zenkutsu Datchi, or the Half Forward Stance, is the traditional fighting stance used in GKR Karate. The fighting stance is easy and very versatile. It allows the person to remain quick on their feet, and permits the ability to switch quickly into other stances for a stronger defense. Han Zenkutsu Datchi also allows for a greater range of motion and is perfect to execute an explosive attack.
Similar to the Long Forward Stance, the fighting stance is one shoulder width apart, but it’s only one shoulder width long. Keep you knees slightly bent and in a relaxed position. Keeping your legs straight reduces your reaction time when performing an attack, as your knees will have to bend to perform an attack from this position anyway. Also, keep the weight distributed evenly between each leg. Not only does this allow you to switch your weight easily, but it prevents you from opening yourself up to an easy attack. For example, if you put too much weight on the front leg, then it’s easier for you to fall forward. Likewise, if you have too much weight on the back of your leg, a push from your opponent could send you falling backwards.
Your hips and shoulders should face at a 45 degree angle away from your opponent. This reduces the angle at which your opponent has to strike. Your back should remain straight at all times. The heel of your back foot should be off the ground so that your foot is resting only on the ball, and your foot should be facing forward. Your front foot is also facing forward with the heel off the ground. Keep your hands up at all times to guard your torso and face.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
1. Remember to keep your knees bent. This keeps up your reaction time and allows you to explode forward for an attack.
2. Don’t put too much weight on either leg. Also, keep your front knee from bending too much, as this opens your leg up to a kick from your opponent.
3. Keep your hips at a 45 degree angle. Any more and your back is exposed, and less and this opens up your front.