How to Do Basic Kyokushin Karate Stances

Kyokushin karate is a full contact form of karate that places emphasis on physical toughness and striking force. Because of this, kyokushin uses a number of alternate stance to achieve maximum fighting effectiveness.

Instructions

1. Take a step forward and allow your hips to rotate slightly inward. Keep your back foot slightly more than shoulder width apart from your front foot. Raise your fists so that your front fist is in front of your cheekbone and your back fist is by your chin.

2. Go into a defensive stance by opening your hands from the starting stance. Shift back and forth from one foot to the other to stay light on your feet as you keep your open hands out in front of you.

3. Square your legs and put your fists, fingernails facing up, by each of your hips. Keep your back straight and stay looking ahead so you know which karate stance you should get into next.

4. Use the forward leaning stance by placing your feet slightly less than shoulder width apart. Take one large step forward with your left foot. Bend your left knee so that it tracks over your toes. Extend your left arm downward at a 45-degree angle and make a fist. Bring your right hand to your right rib cage and make a fist.