Kokutsu Dachi in Karate

peterasotoJuly 11, 20242 Mins read156

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1 Kokutsu Dachi in Karate

Kokutsu Dachi in Karate

Kokutsu Dachi, or the Back Stance, is a foundational position in karate used in many katas and techniques. It differs from other stances like Zenkutsu Dachi due to its specific weight distribution and leg positioning. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding and executing Kokutsu Dachi correctly.

Here’s a breakdown of the term:

後 (Koku): Meaning “back” or “rear.”
屈 (Kutsu): Meaning “bent” or “flexed.”
立ち (Dachi): Meaning “stance.”

You will find this stance in many Katas, great stance to work on blocks and foot maneuvers in the dojo. It’s a stance you won’t use in Kumite at all.

1. Stance Structure and Positioning

Kokutso Dachi features a similar longitudinal separation of the feet as Zenkutsu Dachi but with distinct characteristics:

Foot Position: The feet are separated longitudinally by 60% of the karate practitioner’s height.
Back Leg: Bent at a 45-degree angle and flexed, with the knee and foot pointing laterally.
Front Leg: Slightly flexed, pointing straight forward toward the opponent.

2. Weight Distribution

Proper weight distribution is key for stability and readiness:

Back Leg: Carries about 60-70% of the body weight, with some styles recommending up to 80%.
Front Leg: Supports the remaining 30-40% of the weight.
Stability: This distribution allows for balance while enabling quick directional changes.

3. Feet and Angle Formation

The positioning of the feet and the angles they form are essential:

Angle Between Feet: Typically forms a 90-degree angle, though some styles may angle the back foot slightly more forward for easier movement.
Foot Support: The back foot rests on its entire length, including the outer edge and metatarsus. The front foot touches the ground with the toes and the ball of the foot, avoiding heel contact.

4. Hip and Body Alignment

Correct alignment of the hips and body is crucial:

Hip Position: Align the hip vertically above the heel. In some styles, this line falls on the hip’s side or center, affecting the stance’s height.
Body Posture: Maintain a vertically erect posture without leaning forward or backward.

Kokutsu Dachi Step-by-Step Execution

Starting Position: Begin from a neutral stance, feet shoulder-width apart.
Step Back: Slide one foot backward to create a longitudinal separation approximately 60% of your height.
Bend the Back Knee: Bend the back knee at a 45-degree angle, ensuring the knee and foot point laterally.
Position the Front Leg: Slightly bend the front knee, pointing the toes directly forward toward the opponent.
Weight Distribution: Shift 60-70% of your weight onto the back leg, keeping the remaining 30-40% on the front leg.
Angle the Feet: Form a 90-degree angle between both feet, with the back foot resting on its outer edge and metatarsus.
Align the Hips: Position your hip directly above the back heel, forming a vertical line.
Maintain Posture: Keep your back straight and body upright, avoiding any forward or backward lean.
Hand Position: Position your hands at your side, ready to perform a block or strike, like Shuto Uke.
Check Alignment: Ensure your hips are aligned with your knees and maintain eye focus straight ahead.

Kokutsu Dachi Recommendations

Back Straight: Maintain a straight back without leaning forward.
Weight Distribution: Keep the proper balance—40% on the front foot, 60% on the back.
Height Control: Avoid sinking too low to maintain mobility.
Hip and Knee Alignment: Ensure your hips are aligned with your knees for stability.
Focus: Keep your eyes forward, not down.
Hand Readiness: Keep hands at the side, ready for action.

Conclusion

Kokutsu Dachi is a versatile and essential stance in karate, offering both stability and agility. By following the detailed step-by-step guide and focusing on correct body mechanics, practitioners can master this stance and improve their overall karate performance.