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Karate Moves for Beginners

Karate Moves for beginners

"Once a kata has been learned, it must be practiced repeatedly until it can be applied in an emergency, for knowledge of just the sequence of a form in Karate is useless.” 

Karate is one of the world's most widely recognized martial arts. Karate emphasizes control, precision, discipline, and self-knowledge. In addition, value is placed on peace and meditation.


Martial arts mastery always starts at the fundamentals, and Karate is no exception. Advanced karate moves are often made up of multiple "Katas" or choreographed sets of movements. Karate, as with all martial arts, focuses on precision and technique rather than raw strength. Mastery of Karate comes from reflex actions: practicing a technique or skill so often that it becomes second nature to you. Once you master Karate, you'll be able to draw upon it without thinking twice during a competitive or self-defense situation.


Explore the various definitions and word meanings associated with karate by reading through this resource.

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The Three Elements of Karate Training

Karate training is comprised of three elements, kihon, kata, and kumite.

Kihon

Kihon are known as the "fundamentals," the building blocks of more advanced sequences of Karate moves known as "Katas." Thus, Kihon is the foundation of Karate. Kihon allows the karate student, or karateka, to learn Karate in an organized and structured manner. As the rank of the student increases and as they advance in belt color, Kihon becomes more complex and more difficult. 


That's why you must practice Kihon until you can execute them without thinking. Even simple techniques like blocking, punching, kicking, and striking demand regular practice.

Kata

Kata, or "forms," are combinations of Kihon performed in a sequence. They are intended to simulate a fight against multiple attackers. Kihon teaches self-defense and the ability to act efficiently in stressful situations.


The basic Heian Kata has 20 to 27 movements, and advanced Kata can have more than 60 movements. Kata always begins and ends on the same point on the floor. Correct execution of Kata includes the proper application of power, the right speed, whether fast or slow and the expansion and contraction of the body and limbs. A bow is performed at the beginning and end of every Kata.

Kumite

Kumite is a term that means sparring with a partner. Any two karatekas involved in a Kumite must apply proper sparring techniques and control over their movements. Generally speaking, there are three types of Kumite:


  • Basic Kumite: This Kumite involves five or three-step sparring, consisting of the repetition of basic attacks and blocks in a pre-set technique.
  • Ippon Kumite focuses on simple, prearranged forms, emphasizing movement and proper distancing from the opponent.
  • Jiyu Kumite: Jiyu refers to full-on bouts, where the combatants can freely engage in any technique. However, the karateka must strictly control their attacks and execute powerful strikes that stop before they connect to their target. Maintaining control of your attacks isn't easy to do. For that reason, Jiyu Kumite are generally for advanced students.

Best Beginner Online Courses for Karate

The Four Basics of Karate

The fundamentals of Karate are arranged around the four main Kihon: stances (Tachikata), punches (Tsuki), blocks (Uke), and kicks (Geri). Mastery of these basics is necessary to excel as a karateka. Unlike other popular martial arts such as kung fu or Muay Thai, which elaborate movements, Karate has a much more limited range of motion. Despite that, executing even the basic karate moves requires concentration, discipline, and repeated practice over months and years.

Stances (Tachikata)

Stances allow you to maintain proper balance and form while attacking. Without a good stance, your attacks lack force, and you can lose balance quickly or move into a disadvantageous position. Stances are common to all schools of Karate. They create the frame from which your attacks are built. 


Here are some of the most basic stances you'll likely learn when you begin as a karate student:


  • Musubi Dachi: This is the most basic stance. It's performed with the feet in a V-shape. It's used when bowing, which is how every karate lesson begins.
  • Natural Stance (Hachiji Dachi): This is the stance that immediately follows after the Musubi Dachi. It's done with the legs at shoulder length and with both feet pointing forward. The arms are usually kept in front and inclined to the body.
  • Horse Riding Stance (Kiba Dachi): Horse Riding Stance is also prevalent with other forms of martial arts such as Kung Fu. It's done with your feet parallel and wide apart, with a straight back and your knees pointing inwards.
  • Front Stance (Zenkutsu Dachi): Zenkutsu Dachi is the most common stance in karate. It consists of an extended back with the rear leg straightened and the back knee slightly bent. The front foot must always be straight. Your front knee should be at 90-degrees and the back leg out 45-degrees.

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Punches (Tsuki)

While Muay Thai and Taekwondo frequent kicks, punches and open-handed strikes are more common in Karate. Here are some of the punches you'll likely start training with on your first day:

Straight Punch (Choku Zuki)

The Choku Zuki is primarily a straight jab executed from a natural stance. First, make a fist by folding your fingers - not over your thumb - and bend your knuckles at the base of your fingers. Then, tuck your fingers inside your palm.

Punch with the right arm and your palm facing upwards. As you pull your other arm in, your punching arm extends until the palms face downwards.

Front Lunge Punch (Oi Zuki)

The Oi Zuki is a punch executed from a front stance, with the punching leg throwing the punch. Push your hip forward using your stance to add more momentum to the attack.

Reverse Punch (Gyaku Zuki)

With the reverse punch, the leading leg and punching are on opposite sides. So when your right leg is in front of you, punch with your left and vice versa. It's usually intended as a counter that follows a block.

Kicks (Geri)

Kicks are more challenging to execute than punches but are much more powerful. Karate features movements with the arms more frequently, but kicks are essential as well. Geri requires a stable balance with a stance. It's also important to chamber your kick before and after execution, which will make your kicks more streamlined and give them more accuracy.

Front Kick (Mae Geri)

The Mae Geri is one of the most basic karate kicks, one that you'll likely learn on your first day of class. The front kick is done with either your front or back leg in a fighting stance. Front kicks can either be snapped or thrust. When performing the front kick, or any kick, it helps to chamber your kicks before and after execution. First, chamber your kick by bringing your leg up from the floor. Then, execute by extending your leg and hitting your target with the arch of your foot. Chamber it again by bringing in your knee, then lower your leg.

Roundhouse Kick (Mawashi Geri)

The roundhouse kick has been popularized by famous martial arts movies starring masters like Bruce Lee and Chuck Norris. A roundhouse is a fast kick that gets its momentum from the hips.

Raise your leg to the side while leaning back. Extend your leg in a snapping motion and hit with the top of your foot. Bring your leg back to the chamber position.

Side Kick (Yoko Geri)

The sidekick is done from a horse stance. Bring the left leg to cross over from the right foot, pull the left leg close to the left knee, chamber the right leg, and extend to the side, the chamber.

Block (Uke)

Karate blocks UKE

Blocks are karate moves that are mostly performed with a closed fist or an open hand, but you can also train your legs and feet to block. Blocks are used to defend against attacks aimed at the arms and legs. When these moves are used correctly, blocks can stop or even deflect and redirect attacks regardless of their speed and power.

Any effective block can help you avoid a direct hit and give you a small window to counterattack and gain the upper hand during the match. In karate and other martial arts, learning the art of blocking is equally important as learning how to strike. Several types of blocking techniques are used in karate, but the significance is given to the major four types of karate arm blocks.

The Inward Block

Inward blocks are also called inside blocks. These are effective methods to deflect punches and kicks that are directed to the head, like sidekicks and jabs. The movement of this block will ensure that the inside forearm meets the striker’s forearm or the back of the leg. This block will push it out and deflect the attack away from the head.

The Outward Block

Outward blocks are also known as outside blocks. This blocking method can be effectively used to block reverse punches and reduce the impact from the roundhouse kicks. The movement of this block will leave your closed fist away from your face. Thus, when you are trying to block a wide swinging punch, aim for the inside of the striker’s forearm for a better block.

The Upper Block

Upper blocks are also referred to as high blocks. These techniques are great for blocking hammer punches. They also prevent the damage caused by ax kicks. The movement of this block involves a closed fist pointed away from your face. Thus, when blocking a hammer punch, you should use your forearm against your competitors and deflect the strike.

The Lower Block

Lower blocks or low blocks help you prevent strikes to the mid-body like hook punches, sidekicks, roundhouse kicks, etc. This blocking technique will leave your closed fist facing your body. Thus, you can use them to reduce the damage to your ribs by blocking the strikes using your outer forearm. 

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How To Teach Yourself Basic Karate

When it comes to learning Karate or any martial art, there is no substitute for learning in a structured setting under the supervision of an experienced sensei. With the COVID pandemic still active, it may not be safe to return to gyms and dojos even with vaccine roll-outs in effect. Martial arts self-study at home can help you refine and retain the skills you learn in class.


Here's a short training regimen you can do at home:

  • Meditate: Karate emphasizes practicing mindfulness, as does many of the Eastern martial arts. Take 15 minutes. Put on some quiet, repetitive movements. Sit in a lotus position. Empty your mind, and practice letting go of whatever thoughts occupy your attention.
  • Drill the Basics: You will never improve as a karateka without practice. That means drilling your basics. You should also train your stances, your punches, your kicks in 15-minute intervals.
  • Focus on your balance: Karate is not about strength - it's about power and speed. Be conscious of your balance. Be aware of how it's affecting your movements. You should be able to shift your movements at a moment's notice.
  • Practice your Kata: Practice all the Kata you learn in your last session. Do it until it becomes muscle memory, and you'll progress faster than students who don't.

Answers to Your Beginner Karate FAQs

How long does it take to master the karate moves for beginners?

The amount of time it takes to master karate moves for beginners varies greatly depending on the individual's dedication, practice frequency, and natural talent. Some may take months, while others may take years. However, it's important to remember that karate is a lifelong pursuit, and even the most advanced practitioners continue to refine their technique and improve their skills. Consistent practice and patience are key to achieving mastery in karate.

When did karate originate

Karate originated in the Ryukyu Kingdom, which is now Okinawa, Japan, in the early 14th century. It was developed from indigenous martial arts styles, influenced by Chinese martial arts, and later, by Japanese martial arts. The exact origin and development of karate is somewhat debated among historians and martial arts scholars, but it is generally agreed that it emerged as a means of self-defense in a society where weapons were restricted. Over time, karate evolved and spread throughout Japan and beyond, eventually becoming one of the most popular martial arts in the world.

Is karate suitable for children and what are the benefits for them?

Yes, karate can be a great activity for children. Karate training can help children develop discipline, focus, self-confidence, and physical fitness. Karate can also teach children valuable self-defence skills and how to deal with bullies and other difficult situations. Additionally, karate can be a fun and social activity for children, providing them with the opportunity to make new friends and work towards achieving goals. It's important to note that the specific benefits of karate for children may vary depending on the child's age, personality, and individual needs, so it's a good idea to discuss your child's participation in karate with a qualified instructor.

How can I find a reputable karate school or instructor?

To find a reputable karate school or instructor for beginners, there are several steps you can take. First, research schools or instructors in your area and read reviews from other students or parents. Look for instructors who have experience teaching beginners and who prioritise safety and proper technique. It's also a good idea to visit the school or attend a class to get a sense of the teaching style and atmosphere. Additionally, you can ask for recommendations from friends or family members who have experience with karate. Another useful resource for beginners is YouTube tutorials. Many experienced karate instructors offer free tutorials online, which can be a great way to supplement your training and learn new techniques. However, it's important to be cautious when learning from YouTube and to ensure that you're following instructions carefully to avoid injury. It's always recommended to practise under the guidance of a qualified instructor in addition to using online resources.

How can I improve my technique when practising karate moves for beginners?

Improving your technique in karate requires consistent practice and attention to detail. To do this, it is important to practice regularly, ideally for at least 30 minutes per day. While practicing, focus on proper form by paying close attention to your posture, stance, and alignment. You can practice in front of a mirror or with a partner to ensure that your form is correct. Breaking down complex moves into smaller, more manageable parts is also helpful. Practice each part separately until you feel comfortable, and then gradually put them together. Getting feedback from a qualified instructor or experienced partner who can provide feedback on your technique and suggest areas for improvement is also beneficial. Remember, improving your technique in karate takes time and patience, so celebrate your progress and enjoy the journey.

Start Your Karate Journey Today: Master These Beginner Moves

Progression and advancement as a karate student come with diligent practice and a grounding in the fundamentals. When you're intimately familiar with the essential elements of Karate and practice them often, you'll be well-placed to begin a rich and rewarding path as a karateka.


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