MMA, Karate and Self Defense from Mill Hill Dojo
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Hangetsu dachi is a karate stance. Pronounced 'hang-get-sue-datch' and is the Half Moon Cresant stance found in Shotokan Karate.
To achieve the stance, place one foot forward approximatly two shoulders width in length and turn the foot of the leading leg in towards the body at 45 degrees. Then step out just slightly with the opposite leg and turn the opposite foot inwards at 45 degrees also. The knees alo should be bent slightly. This stance should stretch the legs and the inner thighs and maybe slightly uncomfortable at first but like all stances, plenty of practise results in a strong stance
When stepping or moving in this stance, the action of creasant stepping is often used. This is simply to arc the foot towards the other in a circular sweeping motion. This circular motion is what gives this stance its name, hangetsu dachi, named after the half moon or creasant.