Front/Forward Stance

This is a strong, aggressive stance that is basic to most styles of Karate. Zenkutsu Dachi, since it is long, is also low to the ground. Every time you get into the stance, keep in mind the following points.

  • Hips and shoulders are squared to the front.
  • Front foot is pointed straight forward and is inline with the shoulder.
  • Back foot is turned/pointed as far toward the front as possible.
  • Front knee is bent directly over the ankle which makes the shin perpendicular to the floor.
  • Back knee is locked straight.
  • The width is one shoulder-width.
  • The length is measured by rolling your back foot forward over the toe and laying your ankle flat on the ground. The rear knee is pointed straight toward the front foot. You should be able to place two “stacked” fists on the floor between your rear knee and front heel.