In karate, winding up for a strike is different from winding up for a baseball pitch, and very different from the wild swinging motion of an inexperienced fighter. An untrained observer might not even be able to tell that a karateka is winding up. A karate windup maximizes the power of a strike while minimizing any moves that might waste valuable time, or tip off an opponent to a fighter's intent. Although it will take practice to grow accustomed to the motions, a karate windup is actually simpler and easier than a looping haymaker punch.
Step 1
Assume a karate stance, such as a T-stance or neutral bow. All good karate technique begins with a powerful, rooted and well-aligned body position.
Step 2
Press the ball of one foot firmly into the ground. This should be the foot on the same side of your body as you will throw your punch or kick with. Drive it into the ground, rooting yourself and engaging your entire body into the strike, rather than just one limb.
Step 3
Feel the pressure move up your leg, through your thighs and into the muscles of your rear and lower back.
Step 4
Begin your strike, moving your leg for a kick, your arm for a punch. Observe all aspects of proper technique for the strike you want to throw.
Step 5
Rotate your hips and upper body to drive the strike forward.
Step 6
Fire your strike, hitting your target with the proper surface area. In all cases, you should strike as though you are pushing your limb with your body, not reaching for your target with a hand or foot.
Tips and Warnings
- With nearly all strikes, you'll get better results if you move your arm or leg as little as possible, relative to your body. This helps you engage your body's weight and power, adding force to the strike.
- There is no substitute for live instruction from a qualified instructor when it comes to learning martial arts. Although you can get valuable information by reading Internet articles, serious students should regularly attend classes to safely improve their technique.
References
- "AKKA Black Belt Book"; Bill Packer; 1996
- Dave Coffman; Martial Arts Instructor; Hillsboro, Oregon
- Jason Brick; Martial Arts Instructor; Browncoat Enterprises; Hillsboro, Oregon
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