Heian Nidan - The second step to a peaceful mind
This kata was originally taught as the first Heian kata. The name and order was swapped by Master Funakoshi when he realised that this one was in fact technically more difficult than Heian Shodan.
Heian Nidan makes extensive use of back stance (kokustu dachi) and the knife hand block (shuto uke). The first 16 movements are performed in the back stance. A side snap kick (yoko geri keage) and back fist strike (uraken uchi) technique is introduced and is performed simultaneously. This movement requires co-ordination and balance.
The front half facing position (hanmi) which is performed at position 19, brings about a small change in the front stance (zenkutsu dachi). It should be approximately one foot shorter. The correct hanmi position should have the hips positioned at 45° to the front with the head facing forward.
The starting and finishing point should be the same.
Movements - There are 26 movements in Heian Nidan
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