Kihon Waza

Kihon Waza, or 'Basic Techniques', is one of the three pillars of Karate training, the other two being Kata, and Kumite. The development of strong basic techniques will result in more effective Kata and Kumite techniques as well. In order to master these techniques they must be continuously practiced through repetitive training. Like all complex motor skills for any type of physical activity it is only through the repetition of basic movements that one develops the necessary muscle memory and reflexes that creates instinctive reaction.

The type of basic karate techiques that are practiced are:

• Tachi waza (Stances)
• Uke waza (Blocking or Intercepting)
• Tsuki waza (Punching)
• Uchi waza (Striking)
• Keri waza (Kicking)
• Kansetsu waza (Joint Attacks)
• Nage waza (Throws and Take downs)
• Shime waza (Chokes and Strangles)

Basic techniques can be practiced stationary, 'Sonoba no waza', as well as while moving 'Ido no waza'. Other important skills that can be developed during kihon waza practice are 'Tenshin' (footwork), 'Atifa' (striking power), 'Chinkuchi' (short power), and 'Kamae' (combative positions).