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Henka

What is Henka?

Henka is a controversial and strategic maneuver used in sumo wrestling. It involves a wrestler sidestepping immediately after the initial charge (tachi-ai) instead of engaging head-on with their opponent. This sudden lateral movement can cause the opponent to lose balance and fall forward or to the side, often leading to a quick victory for the wrestler executing the henka.

While henka can be effective, it is sometimes viewed negatively by fans and other wrestlers because it is seen as avoiding a direct confrontation, which is a core aspect of sumo's fighting spirit. Despite this, it remains a legitimate technique within the rules of sumo and is occasionally used by wrestlers seeking to outmaneuver a stronger or more aggressive opponent.

Related Article: Sumo Wrestling: The Traditional Japanese Combat Sport

We must remember that science is a way of using empirical evidence to better understand our world. We are all scientists, just many of us are not very good ones. However, we are all capable of exercising our intellects in a purposeful, linear pursuit of knowledge.
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