Haito Uchi Foundation

Haito uchi (ridge-hand strike) is executed with the thumb tucked across the palm, striking with the ridge of the hand rather than the extended thumb. The strike targets temple height, with the chamber position folding the striking arm into the top of the chest while the opposite hand folds to the small of the back simultaneously.

Haito Uchi Execution

From the chamber position, the striking arm drops to the side before moving up and around in a circular arc. Both the chest and small of the back positions initiate simultaneously, with the practitioner maintaining proper hip alignment throughout the execution.

Shuto Tsuki (Inside Knife Hand)

Shuto tsuki is an advanced open-handed strike executed with the arm angled across the face toward the temple or kioin area. The thumb remains tucked, fingers together, with a slight upward angle on the striking surface, distinguishing it from strikes that travel in front of or level with the shoulder.

Shuto Tsuki Chamber and Delivery

The technique prepares similarly to basic shuto, with the hand positioned near the ear and palm facing inward. As the arm extends, both hands work together at the wrist with a coordinated twist, maintaining constant movement toward the target rather than traveling in a straight line.

Gyaku Shuto (Outside Knife Hand)

Gyaku shuto mirrors haito uchi in its chamber position, folding into the chest, but the opposite hand rises to the ear. The striking arm extends in an L-shaped path cutting around to target the temple, with a slight hand angle and necessary bend in the arm mimicking the curve of a sword blade.

Gyaku Shuto Distance and Range

Distance in gyaku shuto is generated during the extension rather than through arm length alone, with the arm straightening slightly as it travels outward. The slight bend must remain throughout execution, consistent with the mechanical principles of haito uchi and shuto tsuki, as the fully extended arm reduces strike effectiveness.

Haito Uchi, Shuto Tsuki & Gyaku Shuto

Tadashi Ryu Karate Do

Haito Uchi

2 min read·6 key moments·PT5M11S video

Key Takeaways

•Haito Uchi Foundation
•Haito Uchi Execution
•Shuto Tsuki (Inside Knife Hand)
•Shuto Tsuki Chamber and Delivery

Mechanics of how these strikes should be performed

Related Techniques

Shuto Uchi

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about haito uchi?

This video covers haito uchi foundation, haito uchi execution, shuto tsuki (inside knife hand). It provides detailed instruction from Tadashi Ryu Karate Do.

How long does it take to learn haito uchi?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 6-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.