Kihon is the foundation of Karate. It builds technique, power, and control. However, if kihon is practiced in a rigid and unrealistic way, it becomes useless in real combat. To make kihon effective, it must go beyond mechanical drills.
Kihon as a Progressive Tool
Kihon should not be seen as a set of isolated movements but as a progressive training tool. To develop real fighting ability, kihon can, more or less, transition through those stages:
1. Shadowboxing
The first stage of kihon should resemble shadowboxing rather than fixed-line drills, which are often used in sport karate (and to be clear, this is not a criticism of sport karate). This allows techniques to be practiced freely without the restrictions of timing or tactics, while still keeping it realistic.
Instead of moving forward in Zenkutsu-dachi while executing Oi-tsuki, practitioners should simulate a fighting stance and execute punches with Oi-ashi or similar footwork, like a boxer advancing with a jab, using natural stances that allow for mobility, realistic distance management, and proper technique.
This step builds fluidity, adaptability, and better movement habits in a realistic manner.
2. Striking with Impact (Thai Pads and Heavy Bags)
Once movements become comfortable, they must be tested on a target. This is where timing begins to take shape. A useful drill involves working with a partner who keeps a Thai pad hidden behind their back. When the pad is raised, you execute a single punch or kick, developing timing and reaction speed. Only one technique should be executed at this stage, not a combination.
This stage enhances power by ensuring that strikes land with proper mechanics against a solid target. It improves accuracy, as techniques must connect correctly with realistic targets. Conditioning also plays a key role, as the body must adapt to both delivering and absorbing force.
3. Expansion – Combinations with Impact
This next step builds on the previous drill by introducing combinations. The partner hides two Thai pads behind their back and randomly presents them. You must execute a combination of attacks, focusing on timing and tactics. Start with simple combinations of two techniques and gradually expand to more as you progress.
At this stage, rhythm becomes essential, as it helps develop a natural flow in punches and kicks. Confidence also plays a significant role, as you train without the fear of being hit.
This stage makes kihon practical by preparing the practitioner for dynamic situations.
4. Kihon Combinations with a Passive Partner
Another essential drill involves executing kihon combinations against a partner who does not counterattack but simply blocks the strikes. This allows for controlled, fluid execution of techniques with a live target. Practitioners take turns attacking and defending, refining their technique, timing, and tactical decision-making. The drill must be executed slowly since the partner only blocks, and should be smooth and controlled.
This drill helps apply kihon against a real person, improving reaction time without excessive force. It also develops strategic attack patterns. Training at a controlled pace ensures that both partners can focus on precision rather than power.
The Problem with Traditional Kihon Practice
Many dojos teach kihon as a set of isolated movements with little connection to real fighting. Common problems include fixed stances, where moving in rigid, pre-planned patterns creates habits that don’t work in real fights. Unrealistic distances are also a concern, as many kihon drills assume an attacker stands at a set distance, ignoring the dynamics of real combat.
Another issue is static drills where one person attacks with a fixed technique, like a straight punch, and the other always responds with the same block and counter. These patterns build habits that don’t work in real situations. Real attacks are faster, less predictable, and don’t follow a set pattern.
Kihon must move beyond these limitations to be functional and effective in practical situations.
Kihon Must Include Grappling, Throws, and Takedowns
Traditional Karate, as a form of self-defense, includes grappling, though many modern schools overlook this aspect. Training should cover clinching to control an opponent at close range, sweeps and reaps to off-balance them using footwork, and standing joint locks to manage limbs before striking or throwing. Additionally, throws and takedowns, which rely on leverage to bring an opponent to the ground, must also be practiced.
Kihon is not just about striking; it must prepare practitioners for all ranges of combat, ensuring they are equipped for every aspect of a real confrontation.
Basic Ground Fighting
Karate is primarily a stand-up art, but in real fights, it may end up on the ground. Therefore, kihon must include techniques for escaping from pins and holds, as well as understanding basic ground positioning such as guard, mount, and side control. Practitioners should also learn simple striking and submission techniques from the ground. It is crucial to get back to a standing position as quickly as possible.
Ignoring ground fighting creates a significant gap in self-defense training. Even a basic understanding of ground control can make a critical difference in a real fight.
Conclusion
Kihon is more than just basic techniques; it is the foundation of real combat. To be effective, it must be trained dynamically, tested on impact, and include all aspects of fighting. Karate was never meant to be a sport of light taps and rigid drills. It is a complete system that must be trained as such. It was designed for survival. If kihon does not reflect the realities of combat, it fails in its purpose.
Cheers; Gert
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