Karate Strikes
Learning to strike properly is critical when it comes to Karate or Self Defense. One might think striking is all about power but the truth be known most strikes are actually critically dependant on the technique rather than power. Obviously power plays a vital part, and the more power you can harness in your strikes, the more chance you have of breaking a wrist, knuckle or even an arm. The striking technique is the most important area to focus on and only when you are certain you understand the technique correctly should power be introduced into your strikes.
Jodan Tsuki | Head Level Punch
Jodan Tsuki (pronounced jo-dan-zuki) is essentially the same type of punching technique as the Chudan Tsuki only the target level is the head of an opponent rather than the body. There is a tiny difference with the body mechanics which enables the Jodan Tsuki to have longer reach than the same punch aimed at the body as the higher the arm the more extension is allowed from the shoulder. Full details and instructional video on Jodan Tsuki.
Ura Uchi and Ura Ken | Backfists
Ura Uchi the front Backfist and Ura Ken the side backfist strikes are the fast jab style punching techniques used in Karate based martial arts and self defense systems. The striking technique is made by fast jabbing out a clenched fist to either the front or the side of your body. The key is to strike fast and retract faster. The logic behind this is the faster you can bring the arm back after a punch, the sooner that arm can be used for punching again. Full details and instructional video on Backfists.
Shita Tsuki | Short Punch
Shita Tsuki is known as the short punch in karate. The punch starts from the normal preparation point at the side of the body with the fist inverted. The punch is then sent out in a direct line towards the center of the opponent in a slight upward motion. The target area for the Shita Tsuki Short Punch is the stomach area to a front facing opponent or the kidney area of a rear or sidewards facing opponent. Full details and instructional video on Shita Tsuki.