How to Use Leaping Crane in American Kenpo Karate

Influenced by a number of Japanese and Chinese martial arts, including jiu jitsu, tai chi and kung fu, American kenpo karate has become one of the most popular martial arts styles taught in the Untied States. With more than 700 self-defense techniques as well as a number of kicks and strikes, the leaping crane is just one of many kenpo movements you can begin practicing today.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Use the kenpo leaping crane technique in competition or as a method of self-defense against a straight punch. Practice this move on both sides of your body in preparation for a left handed opponent.

2. Step to the left as your opponent throws the straight punch, lifting your right knee and balancing your weight on your left leg, like a crane. As you move left, throw your left arm out towards your opponent's elbow to divert the trajectory of the straight punch.

3. Use your momentum to swing your right arm out straight and fast, hitting your attacker with your fist in the solar plexus. To accentuate the strike, make a fist with your hand and raise your middle finger slightly to create a more painful impact.

4. Kick with your right leg, impacting the back of your opponent's right knee with the sole of your foot, sending him to his knees. Step forward into his body as you drop a right hand sword to the middle back, just below the ribcage.

5. Finish the kenpo leaping crane technique by striking your opponent in the back of the neck with the back of your right elbow, dropping him to the ground.

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