Stances

In addition to being combat postures, stances also play a major role of keeping the body balanced and stable. Stances are of three main types: side, back, and front. To master them you need to ensure that the position of your feet, knees, and hips comes together to create the right base. Correct practice of stances aids in strengthening legs and hips.

Strikes

Karate strikes are made with the following parts of the body: Front and back of the fist, the outside edge of a closed hand, finger tips, finger joints, outside and inside edges of an open hand, and palm of the hand near the wrist

For a karate strike to be effective, you should use a fast, snappy whip-like action. You should also ensure that you have the correct tension in the striking surface.

Kick

A Karate kick relies on good balance, stable stance, and flexibility. The striking surfaces are the ball and edge of the foot. The heel and the instep are also used. Kicks are delivered with one foot on the floor or both feet in the air and they can come from any direction.

Punches

These are the most practiced and they are taught from the very first lesson. The main points of impact are the two biggest knuckles of the fist. They are usually performed with both feet on the ground.

For you to be stable, it’s recommend that you deliver the punches with your legs a little bit apart. For speed, the punches should take the shortest path to the target-a straight line.

Blocks

Karate blocks are used for defensive purposes where they are used to defend one against arm and leg attacks towards any part of the body. Blocks are also used against weapon attacks.

They are done with a closed fist or open hand; however, legs can also be trained to block. For you to effectively block, you need to have great timing so that you “meet” an attack at the right moment.