12/06/2026
KARATE BASICS GUIDE
Stances โข Techniques โข Terminology
Karate is more than punches and kicks โ it is a discipline that develops the body, mind, and spirit through constant practice, focus, and respect. This guide introduces some of the most important fundamentals every karateka must understand on the path of Karate-Do.
The illustration demonstrates the powerful Oi Tsuki (Long Punch) performed in Zenkutsu Dachi (Forward Stance), one of the most fundamental attacking positions in traditional karate. Proper stance, balance, and body alignment allow the technique to generate speed, power, and stability.
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BODY TARGET LEVELS
JODAN โ Upper Level
Attacks directed toward the head, face, or upper body.
CHODAN โ Middle Level
Targets the chest, ribs, and midsection.
GEDAN โ Lower Level
Techniques aimed toward the lower body and legs.
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BASIC STANCES (DACHI)
Heisoku Dachi
Close feet stance used for attention and readiness.
Musubi Dachi
Joining stance commonly used during bowing and respect.
Heiko Dachi
Natural parallel stance for balance and preparation.
Kiba Dachi
Horse-riding stance that develops strong legs and stability.
Zenkutsu Dachi
Forward stance used for powerful attacks and strong movement.
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BASIC PUNCHES (TSUKI)
Jodan Tsuki
Upper-level punch targeting the head or face.
Chodan Tsuki
Middle-level punch aimed at the body.
Gedan Tsuki
Lower-level punch directed downward.
Nidan Tsuki
Double punch combination.
Sanban Tsuki
Triple punch combination for speed and rhythm.
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BASIC BLOCKS (UKE)
Jodan Age Uke
Rising block for defending against upper attacks.
Chodan Soto Uke
Middle outside block used to redirect attacks.
Gedan Barai
Lower sweeping block for defending the lower body.
Shuto Uke
Knife-hand block using the edge of the hand.
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JAPANESE COUNTING IN KARATE
1. Ichi
2. Ni
3. San
4. Shi
5. Go
6. Roku
7. Shichi
8. Hachi
9. Kyu
10. Ju
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KARATE PHILOSOPHY
Karate training begins with basics.
Strong stances build strong techniques.
Strong techniques build discipline and confidence.
Every movement in Karate teaches balance, focus, self-control, and perseverance. True karateka train not only to improve fighting ability, but to strengthen character and spirit.
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CORE VALUES OF KARATE
Respect โ Honor yourself and others
Discipline โ Train with consistency and focus
Perseverance โ Never give up
Spirit โ Develop courage and inner strength
> โTrain hard. Stay humble. Never stop learning.โ
๐ฅ facebook.com/karatedoscience
