Introduction to Kyokushin Hand and Foot Techniques

This three-part instructional series examines the anatomical basis of karate's striking weapons, including their Japanese nomenclature and practical applications. Practitioners will learn twenty hand techniques and seven foot striking surfaces essential for both dojo training and real-world self-defense.

Foundation Before Weapons Training

Mastery of unarmed hand and foot techniques must precede any weapon training. Only after reaching advanced belt levels and developing proper form, technique, and bone conditioning should practitioners progress to weapons training, which then becomes an extension of their already-tempered body.

Seiken: The Fore Fist

The Seiken is the fundamental striking weapon taught first to all martial arts students. Executed by extending four fingers tightly together, curling them to touch the base, and securing the thumb across the index and middle fingers, this technique strikes the abdomen, chest, and face while maintaining a straight wrist for maximum force transmission.

Uraken: The Back Fist

The Uraken employs the back of the closed fist in a rapid snapping motion, either forward or in an arc, with minimal arm tension. This technique targets the face, solar plexus, or body sides and utilizes the same contact points as the Seiken.

Tetsuhi: The Fist Edge Strike

Tetsuhi utilizes the bottom edge of the fist as the striking surface, functioning like a hammer blow. This powerful technique targets the head, joints, face, and solar plexus with both downward and lateral strikes.

Koken: The Wrist Strike

Koken requires the wrist to bend inward with the middle finger touching the thumb, striking with the top of the wrist. This advanced technique employs a snapping wrist motion to deflect incoming attacks.

Multi-Knuckle Fists: Ryutokan, Nihonken, and Single-Knuckle Variations

Ryutokan (dragon's head fist) extends the knuckles of the index, middle, and ring fingers with the middle knuckle prominent, while Nihonken uses only the index and middle finger knuckles. Both specialized techniques deliver overhead strikes and thrusts to the face, as do the single-knuckle variations Nakayubi Ipponken (middle finger) and Hitoashi Yubi Ipponken (index finger).

Keiko and Toho: Specialty Hand Techniques

Keiko, the chicken beak hand, forms a point by pressing the fingers and thumb together for strikes to the face and body. Toho, the sword peak hand, curves the arch between thumb and forefinger to deliver strikes specifically to the neck.

Mastery Through Consistent Practice

Students should dedicate independent study time to perfect each hand technique before dojo training, allowing them to execute required forms and applications with confidence and precision. This preparatory work ensures practitioners arrive at training sessions prepared to focus on advanced applications without hesitation.

ANATOMY OF KARATE HANDS AND FEET TECHNIQUES PART - I | KYOKUSHIN VLOG-29

Kyokushin Society
2 min read·9 key moments·PT10M1S video

Key Takeaways

  • Introduction to Kyokushin Hand and Foot Techniques
  • Foundation Before Weapons Training
  • Seiken: The Fore Fist
  • Uraken: The Back Fist

ANATOMY OF KARATE HANDS AND FEET TECHNIQUES PART - I Welcome back to another Kyokushin Society Vlog where we discuss kyokushin karate and other martial arts related content In this 3 part VLOG we will discuss the anatomy of the karate's hand and feet techniques, names in japanese and purpose of each. We will discuss the anatomy of 27 hand and feet techniques, 20 hand techniques and 7 feet techniques surfaces and their name accordingly. In this part 1 video 1. Seiken 2. Uraken 3. Tettsui 4. Koken 5. Ryutoken 6. Nihon Ken 7. Naka Yubi Ippon Ken 8. Hitoashi Yubi Ippon Ken 9. Keiko 10. Toho Osu Arigato ------------------------------------- DON'T FORGET TO SUBSCRIBE 🙂 LIKE 😁 COMMENT😎SHARE THE VIDEO WITH YOUR FRIENDS🥋 ---------------------------------------- Our site https://m.facebook.com/NorthAmericanKyokushinOrganization/ Thank you Performance Fitness & Kyokushin Karate https://m.facebook.com/Performancefitnesskyokushin/ ----------------------------------------------------------- CONTENT DISCLAIMER: The techniques executed and explained in these videos are for informational and educational purposes only. They are meant to promote Kyokushin Karate and spread the teachings of Sosai Mas Oyama. Please consult with a physician before engaging in any of these Martial Arts exercises. #kyokushin #karate #kyokushinkarate #martialarts #kyokushinsociety #seiken #uraken #tettsui

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about nihon ken?

This video covers introduction to kyokushin hand and foot techniques, foundation before weapons training, seiken: the fore fist. It provides detailed instruction from Kyokushin Society.

How long does it take to learn nihon ken?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 9-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.

What are the key details for finishing nihon ken?

Keiko, the chicken beak hand, forms a point by pressing the fingers and thumb together for strikes to the face and body. Toho, the sword peak hand, curves the arch between thumb and forefinger to deliver strikes specifically to the neck.