Basic Karate Punches (Tsuki/Zuki)

Basic Karate Punches (Tsuki/Zuki)

1. Oi-zuki (Lunge Punch)

• Description: A forward stepping punch using the lead hand (same side as front leg).

• Used in: Kihon, kata, and beginning kumite.

• Purpose: Strong offensive punch with forward momentum.

  
  

2. Gyaku-zuki (Reverse Punch)

• Description: A punch with the rear hand (opposite the front leg), usually from zenkutsu-dachi (front stance).

• Used in: Kihon, kata, kumite.

• Purpose: Quick and powerful counter-punch.

  
  

3. Kizami-zuki (Jab Punch)

• Description: A fast jab with the front hand, without stepping.

• Used in: Kumite (especially point sparring).

• Purpose: Speed and point scoring; sets up combinations.

  
  

4. Uraken (Back Fist Strike)

• Description: A whipping strike with the back of the fist, often directed to the face or side of the head.

• Used in: Kumite, kata.

• Purpose: Quick, surprise attack.

  
  

5. Tate-zuki (Vertical Fist Punch)

• Description: A punch with the fist held vertically (thumb up), often used in close range.

• Used in: Close fighting or self-defense.

• Purpose: Maintains structure at short distances.

  
  

6. Kagi-zuki (Hook Punch)

• Description: A hook punch delivered with a bent arm in a circular motion.

• Used in: Advanced kihon or self-defense.

• Purpose: Strikes from the side, especially at close range.

  
  

7. Mawashi-zuki (Roundhouse Punch)

• Description: A circular punch coming from the side.

• Used in: Advanced practice, some kata.

• Purpose: Striking from an angle.

  
  

8. Ago-zuki (Uppercut Punch)

• Description: An upward punch aimed at the chin or under the ribs.

• Used in: Close-range self-defense or bunkai (kata applications).

• Purpose: Breaks the guard and targets the jaw or solar plexus.

  
  

9. Heiko-zuki (Parallel Punch)

• Description: Both fists punch forward simultaneously, side by side.

• Used in: Kihon and some kata (e.g., Heian Nidan).

• Purpose: Double punch to centerline targets.

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10. Morote-zuki (Augmented Punch)

• Description: A punch reinforced by the other hand (like pushing the punching arm).

• Used in: Kata and bunkai.

• Purpose: Increases strength and support in the punch.

  
  

  Karate Punching Principles

  
  

• Hips and core generate the power (hip rotation or "koshi no kaiten").

• Focus (kime): Explosive energy at the end of the technique.

• Breathing: Short exhale or kiai at the moment of impact.

• Proper form: Elbow close to the body, wrist aligned to avoid injury.

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