It's won't hurt anything if you know how and it's also good to know how to do it. I Don't do it regularly but have and if I ever broke a cable I would be able to get home and with the newer hydraulic systems it may even be more handy to know how.

 

It seems counter intuitive for sure...
Learning basics never broach the technique..
The same way they don't teach the two finger brake lever..
It's gotta be hard on my bike, why else is it there..
On and on... I get that..

I've always been a see for myself guy..
Specially for things not middle of the road, so to speak.

But if you read up on it, then learn it for yourself..
Your lying eyes will say very different..
It is smoother, and easier and easier on the parts involved..

I tried it bout when I started using the heel shift.
I am surprised more ppl don't..
I bet it depends on the demographics

It's all good