Page:Japanese Physical Training (Hancock).djvu/143

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Feats of Attack and Defence
101

by the one who endeavours to make the throw employing his right hand to seize the adversary's left hand, but the left hand may be employed in seizing the other's right hand. Too much strength should not be employed in the practise of this feat, or else the opponent's wrist is likely to be broken. But the Japanese practise the feat continually. It is of no value in opposing a blow, but it is most valuable when it is desired to throw an opponent on his back before he has thought to clench his fist and strike out from the shoulder.

After this grip has been studied there is a blow taught that is most effective in cases where the opponent is threatening to fight, but where he has not raised his hands for attack. Either one of the opponent's wrists may be seized, but this is not always necessary. The main point is to employ the edge of the wrist in striking a sharp, decisive blow against the thorax—in other words, in giving a blow with the edge of the wrist that will land severely on what is commonly called the "Adam's apple." This blow is bound to floor any man who is not looking for the attack.