That fight and this post made me remember that without the magic bending is literally just mcdojo martial arts. She could have absolutely shanked Azula here

Yes I know its based on real kung fu, shut the fuck up. Unless you are a monk training in a non performative style and sparring constantly then it isn't worth shit in an actual fight. And even then you could argue its efficacy is entirely dependent on a monks usual overall incredible physical ability.

But mean yeah all those forms could be effective in a real close range fight. But not against an opponent thats aware and isn't cooperating, and also isnt giving you the space to aim. I mean we even have that one fight in Korra where the literal avatar gets folded by someone who only had to get in close