27/04/2025
Different striking surfaces of the foot used in Karate and other martial arts for kicks.
Here’s the breakdown:
1. Koshi – "Ball of the Foot"
Meaning: (Here, koshi refers to the ball of the foot, not "hip.")
Strike with: The hard ball of the foot (just under the toes).
Used for: Front kicks like Mae Geri (front kick).
Target areas: Groin, stomach, chin.
2. Teisoku – "Sole of the Foot"
Meaning: "Bottom of the foot."
Strike with: The flat sole.
Used for: Pushing or stomping, like in a Teisoku geri.
Target areas: Knees, hips, abdomen.
3. Tsumasaki – "Tips of the Toes"
Meaning: "Toe tips."
Strike with: Pointed toes (strong and tucked tightly).
Used for: Special versions of front kicks aimed at vital points.
Target areas: Groin, throat, solar plexus.
4. Kakato – "Heel"
Meaning: "Heel."
Strike with: The hard bone of the heel.
Used for: Stomping downward kicks like Kakato Otoshi Geri (heel drop kick).
Target areas: Head (when high), collarbone, chest.
5. Haisoku – "Top of the Foot"
Meaning: "Top of the foot."
Strike with: Instep (top part) of your foot.
Used for: Round kicks like Mawashi Geri (roundhouse kick).
Target areas: Head, ribs, thighs.
6. Sokuto – "Edge of the Foot" or "Foot Sword"
Meaning: "Foot blade."
Strike with: Outer edge of the foot.
Used for: Side kicks like Yoko Geri (side kick).
Target areas: Ribs, knee, head, torso.