Shotokan Stances Kokutsu Dachi

Many shotokan karateka find this karate stance the most difficult. Kokutsu dachi should be roughly two shoulder lengths, front foot facing directly forward and back foot facing 90 degrees to the side. The front leg slightly bent and should not be locked straight. The back leg is bent strongly, but naturally, do not force the knee outwards. 70% of the weight should be on the back leg and 30% on the front and the heels should be in a straight line.

Jyu Ippon Kumite Brown belt sparring Exercise

Jyu ippon kumite is a karate exercise that is practiced at brown belt or 3rd kyu. It involves single karate attacks from an attacker, and a defense and counter from a defender. Jyu ippon kumite is an integral part of shotokan karate and is need at karate exams from brown belt to black belt.

Brown Belt Shotokan Karate Kata Jion

Jion is a brown belt shotokan karate kata. Some karate classes have this particular karate kata as one that is needed when attempting shodan (black belt 1st dan). Jion is quite a basic kata, but also has several more advanced combinations. This kata is very strong and linear in style.

Jion (translates as: "Temple" or "Temple of love and goodness")