Overview
Identical in appearance to a barate, except that heisho techniques may be used as strikes or blocks. As strikes, heisho is used with power and strong wrist, rather than the light, flicking motion of a barate. As a block, is held with great tension, much like a shuto, and used to deflect or force away intruding techniques.
Compare to: Teisho, Barate
Striking targets
Head, an attacking limb, testicles
Used in these katas
Bassai dai, kanku dai
Technique
Create a knife hand by extending the fingers and tucking the thumb to the side of the hand. Keep the wrist strong and straight. Deliver in a circular motion.
Strengths
A blocking alternative when your hand is on the inside of a punch. A useful way to control your opponent's body (think of a clothesline attack to the neck)
Weaknesses
Not particularly fast
The arms don't work at their most powerful moving inside to out
