Techniques
Strikes, kicks, blocks, and stances — the building blocks.
Attention/Ready Stance
Heiko-dachi (平行立ち), or “parallel stance,” is a fundamental posture used primarily as a ready stance before executing techniques or katas. In this stance, the feet are positioned shoulder-width apart, with the outer edges parallel and toes pointing straight forward. The weight distribution is even across …
Back Fist Strike
In karate, the back fist strike, known as Uraken Uchi (裏拳打ち) in Japanese, is a technique where the practitioner strikes using the back of the fist, targeting areas such as the face, temple, or ribs. 
Back Ridge Hand
The Back Ridge Hand, known in Japanese as Haito Uchi (背刀打ち), is an open-hand striking technique in karate. “Haito” (背刀) literally means “back sword” or “ridge hand,” referring to the striking surface, which is the inner edge of the hand from the base of the index finger to the wrist, …
Crescent Kick
The Crescent Kick, known in Japanese as Mikazuki Geri (三日月蹴り), is a distinctive and versatile technique in karate. “Mikazuki” (三日月) translates to “crescent moon,” aptly describing the curved path of the kick, and “Geri” (蹴り) means kick. This kick is characterized by a sweeping, …
Double Lunge Punch
In karate, Nihon Zuki (二本突き) translates to “double punch.” This technique involves delivering two consecutive punches in rapid succession, typically executed from a stable stance such as Kiba Dachi (horse-riding stance) or Zenkutsu-Dachi. Practicing Nihon Zuki helps develop coordination, speed, and power, serving as an …
Double Roundhouse
In karate, the double roundhouse kick, or Nidan Mawashi Geri (二段回し蹴り), is an advanced technique that involves delivering two consecutive roundhouse kicks with the same leg. This combination can effectively overwhelm an opponent by targeting different areas in quick succession.
Down Block
In karate, the downward block, known as gedan barai (下段払い), is a fundamental defensive technique designed to deflect or sweep away attacks aimed at the lower part of the body, such as kicks or strikes directed toward the abdomen or groin.
Fighting Punch
In karate, the term tsuki (突き) refers to punching techniques fundamental to the art’s striking repertoire. These punches are typically executed by forming a proper fist (seiken) and delivering strikes with the first two knuckles. Among the various tsuki techniques, the choku-zuki (直突き), or straight punch, serves …
Fighting Stance
This one I haven’t been able to find equivalant Japanese name. This might be an American Karate stance. Execution of Fighting Stance: From attention stance usually Step back with left or right foot turning your body side ways with your feet parallel. You will still be looking towards the front Back hand comes up …
Front Kick
The Front Kick in karate is called Mae Geri (前蹴り), which literally means “forward kick.” It’s one of the most essential and widely used kicking techniques, known for its speed, directness, and effectiveness in both offense and defense.
Front Stance
In karate, the front stance, known as zenkutsu-dachi (前屈立ち), is a fundamental position emphasizing stability and power. It’s widely used across various techniques, including strikes, blocks, and transitions in kata (forms).
Hook Kick
In karate, the hook kick, known as Ura Mawashi Geri (裏回し蹴り), is a dynamic technique that involves a circular motion to strike an opponent, typically targeting the head or upper body. This kick is valued for its speed and the element of surprise, making it a potent addition to a martial artist’s repertoire.
Hook Punch
The Hook Punch, known in Japanese as Kake-zuki (掛け突き) or sometimes Mawashi-zuki (回し突き), is a powerful and versatile hand technique in karate. “Kake” (掛け) implies “hooking” or “hanging,” referring to the arc of the punch, while “Zuki” (突き) means punch or thrust. …
Inside Block
In karate, the inside block, known as Uchi Uke (内受け), is a fundamental defensive technique used to deflect attacks aimed at the body. This block involves bringing the forearm across the body from the outside to the inside, effectively intercepting and redirecting incoming strikes.
Jab
The Jab, known in Japanese as Kizami-zuki (刻み突き), is one of the most fundamental and frequently used techniques in karate. “Kizami” (刻み) means “engraving” or “mincing,” implying a quick, sharp, and often repeated action, while “Zuki” (突き) means punch or thrust. This …
Jump Front Kick
The Jump Front Kick, known in Japanese as Mae Tobi Geri (前飛び蹴り), is one of the most dynamic and visually impressive techniques in karate. Breaking down its name, “Mae” (前) means front, “Tobi” (飛び) means jump or flying, and “Geri” (蹴り) means kick. This translates directly to a …
Knife Hand Strike
In karate, the knife-hand strike, known as Shuto Uchi (手刀打ち), is a fundamental technique that utilizes the edge of the hand, opposite the thumb, to deliver powerful strikes. Commonly referred to as a “karate chop,” this strike targets vulnerable areas such as the neck, collarbone, and temple, making it …
Lunge Punch
In karate, the lunge punch, known as oi-zuki (追い突き) in Japanese, is a fundamental technique that combines forward movement with a straight punch, delivering significant power by utilizing the body’s momentum.
Outside Block
In karate, the outside block, known as Soto Uke (外受け), is a fundamental defensive technique used to deflect attacks aimed at the head or upper body. This block involves moving the arm from the inside to the outside, effectively intercepting and redirecting incoming strikes.
Ridge Hand Strike
In karate, the ridge-hand strike, known as Haitō Uchi (背刀打ち), is a versatile technique that utilizes the inside edge of the hand, opposite the knife-hand strike, to deliver powerful blows. This strike is effective for targeting areas such as the temple, neck, and ribs, making it a valuable addition to a martial …
Roundhouse
In karate, the roundhouse kick, or Mawashi Geri (回し蹴り), is a fundamental technique characterized by its circular motion, delivering powerful strikes to various target areas. It’s versatile and effective in both offensive and defensive scenarios.
Side Kick
In karate, the side kick, known as Yoko Geri (横蹴り), is a powerful technique executed by thrusting the leg sideways to strike an opponent. This kick is valued for its strength and versatility in both offensive and defensive situations. 
Spinning Back Kick
In karate, the spinning back kick, or Ushiro Geri (後ろ蹴り), is a powerful technique that combines a spin with a backward thrusting kick. It’s effective for delivering forceful strikes, especially when countering an opponent’s attack.
Spinning Backfist
The Spinning Backfist, known in Japanese as Ushiro Uraken Uchi (後ろ裏拳打ち), is a dynamic and surprising hand technique in karate. Breaking down its name, “Ushiro” (後ろ) means back or rear, indicating the spinning motion; “Uraken” (裏拳) means backfist (striking with the back of the clenched fist); and …
Spinning Hook Kick
The Spinning Hook Kick, known in Japanese as Ushiro Ura Mawashi Geri (後ろ裏回し蹴り), is a highly effective and dynamic technique in karate, often used for its power and deceptive nature. Let’s break down its Japanese name: “Ushiro” (後ろ) means back or rear, indicating the initial turning motion; …
Spinning Roundhouse
The Spinning Roundhouse Kick, is similar to the Spinning Hook Kick / Ushiro Mawashi Geri but instead of a hook kick at the end its a roundhouse. This particular kick I couldn’t find an exact Japanese name for. This kick I would consider a bit of a fake out. It looks like you are coming around to throw a hook kick …
Spinning Side Kick
In karate, the spinning side kick, known as Ushiro Mawashi Geri (後ろ回し蹴り), is an advanced technique that combines a 360-degree spin with a side kick, delivering a powerful strike from an unexpected angle. This kick is often utilized in kata performances and advanced sparring due to its complexity and effectiveness.
Triple Lunge Punch
In karate, Sanbon Zuki (三本突き) translates to “three-punch combination,” a fundamental technique involving a sequence of three consecutive punches. This drill enhances speed, power, and coordination, serving as a cornerstone in many karate styles.