Kick

The First Kick You Learn In Shotokan Karate

“Build your house on a strong foundation.”

Getting the basics down is part of creating a strong foundation in martial arts.

Let’s have a look at the kick that is basically considered the most simple one to learn.

As early as white belt student level it is the first kick you learn in Shotokan Karate.

We’re talking about the front kick which is also known in Japanese as Mae Geri.

It can be executed either as a snap (keage) or thrust (kekomi) kick.

In my own personal experience, in sparring, tournament and self-defense, both types have their justification.

The snap front kick can test your opponent’s reaction. I can also stun your opponent and serve as an opening act to be followed up by your closer which can be another kick or just a punch combination.

The thrust front kick is in my opinion a true follow-through technique that can in itself close the deal and when effectively executed inflict major damage on your opponent.

Let’s say you are standing in a left forward fighting stance with most of your weight on your left leg and you plan to kick with your right leg.

Simply lift your right knee while simultaneously turning your left foot slightly to the left (counter-clockwise).

This will open your hips and allow for greater reach.

Then just extend your right leg and hit your target (upper, middle or low) with the ball of your right foot.

After impact, recoil your leg with your knee up and plant your foot to a stable stance. Don’t just drop your leg.

As mentioned above, you apply either a snap or a thrust to the kick.

Important: Always keep your guard up and do your best at holding your balance.

I have noticed when kicking with a snap it is way easier to pull your kicking leg back to your original stance.

In the case of the thrust kick you are really marching forward with a lot of weight and power. Therefore I have found it
to be more practical to have your kicking leg land as for your forward leg.

Keeping it simple:

A powerful front kick can be a very useful weapon in your arsenal for self-defense as well as tournament fighting.