"The ultimate aim of karate lies not in victory or defeat but in the perfection of the character of its participants" - Gichin Funakoshi (father of modern karate)

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Deminished flexibility may lead to greater risk of injury, as well as reduced range and speed in technique. It is important therefore to maintain a high level of elasticity in the muscles through a regular stretching routine.

Some example Stretches >>

The consistant practice of meditation within Karate classes allows the student to create a still mind. Meaning that they are better equipped to react to current situations with an appropriate response...

Meditation and Karate >>

Master Funakoshi is widely considered as the father of modern karate. The term Shotokan, meaning hall of Shoto was derived from Funakoshi's pen name (from his caligraphic works)...

Funakoshi and a brief history of Shotokan Karate >>

 

Within Shotokan karate the development of stances is given great importance. Stances provide the foundation from which all techniques are delivered, they provide us with the stability and mobility to be able to deliver dynamic and powerful punches, kicks and strikes.

For example a well grounded forward stance allows us to utilise the rotation of the hips and the summation of the forces of the upper torso to deliver a strong reverse punch. Much the same way a javelin thrower must plant his feet just prior to throwing the javelin.

The stances displayed below are some of the most commonly seen stances in Shotokan karate.

Forward Stance
Cat Stance
Back Stance

Half Moon Stance
Rooted Stance
Hour glass stance
Straddle Leg Stance
Check These Out!




 
L-Stance
Informal Attention Stance
Informal Attention Stance

 
Parallel Stance
Open Leg Stance
Inverted open leg stance

Stay tuned for more indepth articles on the science of stances.

*Thankyou to the Shotokan Karate Coalition and the Keith Geyer School of Karate for allowing us to publish these photos.

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