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| Here I am executing a Chūdan keriwaza in competition. In freestyle, the trajectory is altered accordingly. For example, being between a mae-geri and mawashi-geri without compromising KIME. |
In Shōtōkan-ryū we must particularly focus our attention on the practice and training of the techniques handed down from the 型 (Kata). So, while free fighting and competition are important testing grounds, the classical waza remains the most important version; that is, the baseline technique from which variations can be seamlessly made.
Moreover, this must be done in a systematic way, which in Budō is based on ‘pragmatic self-defense application’. From this standpoint, one can truly hone highly effective reliable skills.
The keriwaza of Karatedō is particularly interesting in these regards, as in many ways, they are the weakest link in the chain: so, to speak. What I mean by this is that tsuki, uchi and grappling skills far outweigh them in a street fight. That being said, if properly understood, practiced and trained, they are like a secret weapon.
How I used my keriwaza—in my decade of security work—was to set up my finishing impact(s), and or locks/holds. This is as exactly as the kata prescribes and, when mastered, has phenomenal efficiency in the real world.
From a practice/training standpoint, this naturally requires an extremely high level of physical self-control in one’s movements: especially pertaining to 中段技 (Chūdan-waza). It is all too easy, when kicking, not to raise the knee high enough with full ground power, and to ‘over kick, especially pertaining to height as opposed to the depth of impact.
One problem in the training of fighting arts is the misunderstanding about pain in a real situation, the inflicting of pain works in the dōjō, but in reality, adrenaline makes pain something that loses its offensive advantageousness. In fact, it can increase the ferocity of the opponent. This is exactly why, say, Yoko keage in kata is always coupled with uraken and a follow action; likewise, kekomi always pulls the opponent in whilst kicking and mae geri is always followed by tsuki.
This tactic strongly elucidates the practicality of the kata.
When kicking chūdan there are some key points for optimal execution.
— Strictly make the foot formation at the very beginning of the
action.
— Focusing on a grounded heel raise the kicking knee high and
compact.
— Do not kick high, rather, make it decisively chūdan so it can be
sharper.
— Completely relax focusing on a speed ratio of 3:7 imaging a whip.
— Maximize the horizontal drive/expansion of the support leg to
keep deeply.
— Be mindful that the kick is generated from the rear lower back.
— Set the hands and elbows by squeezing at the armpits.
— Be highly conscious of the impact of fascia: keep the head 'set
upright'.
— Return the kicking foot to the floor rapidly, but also lightly.
With these key points in mind, especially in relation to the two most common kicks in the Shōtōkan kata: mae-geri keage and yoko-geri keage, one can decisively focus on the practical applications of these waza. In reality, they aimed at gedan targets to open up the opponent's head/face for attacks. This must be practiced extensively in kumite and with impact training. Of course, the most common leg technique is actually fumikomi, nevertheless, many of the same key points are applied.
Keep in mind kizami geri. That is, ‘cutting kicks’ with the lead leg. Whilst these waza lack the same power as the rear leg kicks, they are harder for the opponent to read and often more safe for the user. For example, when used defensively. That being said, without the proper understanding of the traditional technique, they run the risk of exposing one to a barrage of violent attacks in a real situation. Accordingly, when using these waza, particular emphasis must go on driving the weight of the entire body forward and optimizing the spring of the ankles.
To conclude, I have not mentioned Mikazuki geri, Nami gaeshi, Sokuto gedan kekomi, Nidan geri, De ashi barai, Mawashi geri, Ushiro geri, and so on. Irrespective of that, I hope that it is clear to readers, that the points outlined in this article intrinsically relate to all the keriwaza in Shōtōkan-ryū; furthermore, keriwaza in Gōjū-ryū, Shitō-ryū and the other traditional karate styles.
Lastly, keep in mind that “…a precise chūdan is also the reference point for both jōdan and gedan waza; moreover, chūdan keriwaza are the ‘deepest’ kicks”. This is an important point as kicking techniques are the longest-range unarmed weapons that we possess.
押忍！
アンドン バーテル
©️ André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2026).
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