Introduction to Ushiro Geri
Ushiro geri, commonly known as the spinning back kick, is a fundamental karate technique composed of three distinct phases. Mastering this kick requires understanding each component and how they work together to generate power and control.
Phase One: The Spin
The spin initiates the technique and requires maintaining visual contact with the target throughout the rotation. The practitioner should keep the head in position until neck tension occurs, then quickly redirect focus to lock onto the target. Crucially, the hips must remain square to avoid over-rotation, which would convert the technique into a side kick or lunge kick instead.
Phase Two: Executing the Kick
The kick itself should be delivered using the heel as the striking surface, never with pointed toes. The heel travels directly to the target from the spin position while the toes remain down to contain energy and transfer power efficiently. The hips stay square and the shoulders remain aligned over the supporting leg to maintain proper form and maximize force delivery.
Hip Drive and Follow-Through
Proper execution requires the practitioner to drive through the target rather than simply striking at it. The supporting leg extends with the hips following through, creating a sensation of falling into the opponent. This momentum transfer ensures the kick's power reaches the target rather than being arrested at the point of contact.
Landing Method One: Traditional Approach
The traditional landing sequence involves the practitioner reaching chamber after the kick, squaring the hips, and moving forward. While this method is taught in kihon (basic fundamentals) to reinforce proper technique and momentum control, it may leave the practitioner vulnerable to counterattacks from an opponent during the forward approach.
Landing Method Two: Combat-Practical Approach
The modern, combat-effective landing involves dropping back into a defensive stance rather than advancing forward. This tactical positioning allows the practitioner to respond to threats, shift weight, or retreat if necessary immediately after the kick lands. This method prioritizes defensive readiness over form demonstration, making it ideal for real-world application.
Key Technical Principles Summary
Successful ushiro geri execution combines maintaining visual focus on the target, keeping hips square, striking with the heel while toes remain down, and driving through with hip extension. The practitioner must balance fundamental form with practical combat awareness, selecting appropriate landing methods based on training context and situation.
USHIRO GERI TUTORIAL (Spinning Back Kick)
Key Takeaways
- •Introduction to Ushiro Geri
- •Phase One: The Spin
- •Phase Two: Executing the Kick
- •Hip Drive and Follow-Through
Welcome to Ultimate Karate, in today's Karate Lesson we are learning Ushiro Geri AKA "Spinning Back Kick" Jason Leung is a 4th dan in Shotokan Karate Do 🥋⛩ ~ Ushiro Geri is a very powerful kick, it has the ability to knock an opponent down and most importantly finish the fight. In this video I show you the three steps to learning spinning back kick (Ushiro Geri). Have fun and train hard :) Oss, Jason ~ Products in video ~ Kumite gloves: https://amzn.to/3f9Lcwo Kumite shin guards: https://amzn.to/3u8ECwG Kick Shield: https://amzn.to/3KELGaO Kick paddle: https://amzn.to/3KHbByz ~ *My Film Equipment* Sony A7C: https://amzn.to/3nL3Gb1 16-35 G Master: https://amzn.to/3HQKqRB 20mm G Lens: https://amzn.to/3r5mcNu Sony ECM-B1M Mic: https://amzn.to/3DPAtkG Tiffen 82mm Variable ND Filter: https://amzn.to/3nJT2Bg ~ Tags: kumite, spinning hook kick, ushiro mawashi geri, ura mawashi geri, hook kick, jason leung karate, karate kicks, shotokan kicks, spinning kicks, karate tutorial, kumite techniques, ushiro geri, spinning back kick, uriah hall spinning back kick ~ #KARATE #KUMITE #SHOTOKAN ~ Disclaimer: By purchasing any product though my affiliate links, I will get a small commission that helps support this channel. Thank you!
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about standard spinning back kick?
This video covers introduction to ushiro geri, phase one: the spin, phase two: executing the kick. It provides detailed instruction from ULTIMATE KARATE.
How long does it take to learn standard spinning back kick?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 7-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing standard spinning back kick?
The modern, combat-effective landing involves dropping back into a defensive stance rather than advancing forward. This tactical positioning allows the practitioner to respond to threats, shift weight, or retreat if necessary immediately after the kick lands. This method prioritizes defensive readiness over form demonstration, making it ideal for real-world application.
