Han Zenkutsu Dachi - Half Forward Stance

Line drill style

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Dimensions & forces

Kumite style

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Overview

Although we conventionally call this stance "Short Forward Stance," its name actually translates to "Half Forward Stance" - same intent, different words. It's a shorter version of forward stance.

Whilst it's not as strong defensively in the forward axis thanks to its shorter baseline and higher centre of gravity, it compensates by offering greater mobility, and easier hip movement, with a greater range of rotation . It's often called "fighting stance" because it's a very comfortable sparring stance, that looks similar to a boxer's stance. It's my favourite stance when I want to remain light on my feet, and it's probably the easiest stance (along with ready stance) from which to move into other stances. Defensively, it's the perfect stance from which to slide back into cat stance with a defensive front kick at the ready. Offensively, it's a good starting point before you drive forward into a full forward stance, perhaps beneath your opponent's guard with a reverse punch!

There are two versions of the stance. The first is literally, a half forward stance, in that apart from the length, everything else about it is almost identical to a regular forward stance. The second version is a modification which is becoming increasingly popular amongst serious tournament sparrers within GKR. In this version, the dimensions are the same, but the back foot faces forwards, with the heel raised off the ground. This pre-tensions the foot and calf muscle, and makes it much easier to explode forwards rapidly.

Both versions of the stance are ideal for body movement (twisting, ducking and leaning), and both are good places from which to move sidewards rapidly.

Used in these katas

Seiunchin
Sanseru
Sepai

Technique

It's one shoulder-width broad and one shoulder-width long. Both legs should be slightly bent, and the knees are allowed to rest naturally. Your weight is evenly distributed between your two legs, enabling you to switch your weight onto either leg with equal ease.

Your back should be straight, with your hips and shoulders turned away to 45 degrees whilst sparring in this stance. This reduces the frontal body area that can be used as a target, and pre-cocks the hips ready to add body weight to a strike.

If you opt for the more traditional and stable version of the stance, your back foot should be flat on the ground and the outside of your back foot should face outwards at an angle of 45 degrees, providing a compromise between a locked but strong leg, and the ability to spring forwards dynamically as needed.

If you decide to go for the more dynamic, and attacking version of the stance, you back heel should be lifted from the floor, with your foot facing forwards.

Common mistakes to avoid

Try not to turn your back foot any further out than 45 degrees. It locks the back leg and slows down your reaction time. It also provides less of a platform from which to spring forwards.

Careful that your front knee doesn't collapse in. This not only provides a target for a kick., but is bad for your knee joint.

Make sure that you don't turn your hips past 45 degrees as this presents your back as an easy target to round kicks, and makes it easier for opponents to move around to your weak side.