Combat pit official logo black
Back to Glossary
Home
Search
Martial Arts Culture and History
Gear and Equipment
Personalities
Skill Development
Mind and Body Connection
Weapons and Traditional Tools
Martial arts map
Complete blog posts directory
Contact

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

The chances of a submission hold being successfully applied are much higher when done from a dominating and controlling position.
Renzo Gracie

Check out the latest blogs

See all articles

Other Glossary terms

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Long Staff (Côn)
The Long Staff, or "Côn," is a traditional weapon used in various martial arts, including Vovinam, which is a Vietnamese martial art.
L
Samurai
The term "Samurai" refers to the military nobility and officer caste of medieval and early-modern Japan.
S
Kesho-mawashi
Kesho-mawashi is a ceremonial apron worn by sumo wrestlers during specific formal occasions, such as the ring-entering ceremony (dohyō-iri) that takes place before official matches.
K
Shorei-Ryu-Kenpo
Shorei-Ryu Kenpo is a hybrid martial arts system that combines elements of traditional Okinawan karate (Shorei-Ryu) with the principles and techniques of Kenpo (also spelled Kempo).
S
Capoeira
Capoeira is a Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance, acrobatics, music, and self-defense. It was developed by African slaves in Brazil during the 16th century as a way to disguise their training for self-defense and rebellion.
C
Dutch Kickboxing
Dutch Kickboxing is a style of kickboxing that originated in the Netherlands and is known for its aggressive and highly technical approach.
D
Kyokushin
Kyokushin is a style of Karate founded by Masutatsu (Mas) Oyama in 1964.
K
Kyudo
Kyudo is the Japanese martial art of archery, which translates to "the way of the bow." It is deeply rooted in the traditions of Japanese culture and combines physical, mental, and spiritual elements.
K
Chakra
The chakram (also known as chakra) is a traditional throwing weapon that originated in the Indian subcontinent.
C
Savate
Savate, also known as French kickboxing or French footfighting, is a form of martial art that originated in France.
S
Slip
In combat sports like boxing, kickboxing, and mixed martial arts (MMA), a "slip" refers to a defensive maneuver used to avoid an opponent's punch.
S
J
J
Taijijian
Taijijian (太极剑), also known as Tai Chi Sword, is a traditional Chinese martial art that combines the principles and movements of Taijiquan (Tai Chi) with sword techniques
T
Ballistic Stretching
Ballistic stretching is a form of stretching that involves rapid, bouncing movements to push a muscle beyond its typical range of motion.
B
I
I
No Items Found