Martial Arts Glossary
Glossary of commonly used terms in the Japanese martial arts.
Glossaries
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Uchi | Uchi (打ち)Uchi is a fundamental technical classification in Shotokan Karate and traditional Japanese martial arts translating directly to "strike," "hit," or "whip." Unlike direct linear thrusting punches (Tsuki), an Uchi technique is characterized by a circular, snapping, or arc-like trajectory that utilizes elbow hinge mechanics, forearm rotation, and wrist snapping to deliver explosive kinetic energy to a target.
Author - Sensei Miller
Hits - 20 Synonyms -
Strike, whipping strike, curved strike, snap strike, hand strike, Japanese striking techniques. |
| Uraken-uchi | Uraken-uchi (裏拳打ち)Uraken-uchi is a fundamental snapping strike in Shotokan Karate, commonly known as the "backfist strike." Executed by rapidly extending the elbow joint and whipping the back of the fist—specifically the top surface of the index and middle finger knuckles—toward a target, this high-speed technique delivers sharp, percussive force to vulnerable facial and torso targets.
Author - Sensei Miller
Hits - 17 Synonyms -
Backfist strike, back fist blow, uraken strike, reverse fist strike, whipping backfist. |
| Ushiro-geri | Ushiro-geri (後ろ蹴り)Ushiro-geri is one of the most powerful and devastating kicking techniques in Shotokan Karate, translating directly to "back kick." Executed by driving the heel straight backward along a linear trajectory while turning the torso away from the target, this thrusting kick utilizes the massive power of the glutes, hamstrings, and lower back to deliver overwhelming impact to an opponent.
Author - Sensei Miller
Hits - 14 Synonyms -
Back kick, rear kick, reverse kick, back thrust kick, ushiro geri kekomi. |