Stances are not simply an exercise in balance and strength. They are also a vital part of the fighting applications of kata .Stances are used in combat to ensure correct distribution of bodyweight; the correct position of the karateka's centre of gravity. This is essential if techniques are to be effective, using the entire body, not just the striking limb, in order to obtain maximum power and speed.

It is not the stance itself that generates power, but the movement of the body into the stance (stance transition) that ensures the correct projection of the karateka's bodyweight; using body rotation and propulsion dynamics. Stances are not intended to be static postures, but points of reference of the delivery of a technique.

Stances are also used to limit the opponent's movement and to control their position.

All stances within katas are used in all of these ways.

The way in which one stands, obviously influences the actions that can be immediately taken. A very broad-based stance with a low centre of gravity is extremely stable and good for launching powerful punches and blocks. On the other hand, a narrow-based stance with a high centre of gravity is suited to quick movements.

Kokutsu Dachi (Back Stance)

The Back stance (Kotutsu-Dachi) for example, is a defensive position in which the direction of potential thrust is primarily to the front.

Actual translation is “Back Knee Bend Stance”

Kiba Dachi (Horse-Riding Stance)

The Horse-riding stance (Kiba-Dachi) is suited to strong sideways techniques such as the Back-fist strike (Uraken) And hook punch (Kage Zuki).

This is performed with parallel feet pointing forwards, the heels in line, and two hip-widths apart. The hips are positioned centrally. Bend the knees, pushing them outwards and over the feet. Then let the body sink down into a sitting position, keeping the back straight and vertical.

Hangetsu-Dachi (Half Moon Stance)

In the Half moon stance (Hangetsu-Dachi or Wide hour glass), the feet are virtually screwed into the ground, creating great stability, which is good for sideways thrusts.

The foot position is similar to Fudo Dachi, and the leg position is similar to Zenkutsu Dachi, but the stance is shorter in length. It is a stance of internal tension, as opposed to Kiba dachi, which has outer tension. The tension in this stance comes from the inner thigh. This is the key stance in the self-named kata Hangetsu.

Neko Ashi Dachi (Cat's Foot Stance)

This is good for fast forward movements like Shuto and Mae Geri. It demonstrates the importance of good body-balance and weight-shifting, in order to produce power and speed. Stand with feet together. Move the right foot, one foot's length forward, with your toes only lightly touching the floor. The back foot is turned out at 45 degrees. Bend both legs slightly and “sit” in your stance, with most of your weight on the back leg.

Zenkutsu Dachi (Forward Stance)

This actually translates as “Front Knee Bent Stance". It is the first major stance that is learnt in basic training. The stance should be one shoulder-width wide, and two-shoulder widths long. The front knee is pushed above the toe, giving a strong bend. The front leg takes 80% of the body weight.

Fudo Dachi (Rooted Stance)

The name itself explains the strength and stability that is given when standing in this position. It can be used for blocking, and then counter-attacking. Stand in Zenkutsu Dachi. Keeping the upper body and feet in the same position, move into Kiba Dachi (this will be at an angle). Finally move your hips and centre of gravity nearer the front leg. This is the principal stance practised in Sochin.

Hachiji Dachi and Heiko Dachi

Feet should be shoulder-distance apart: the legs straight, but the knees in a naturally relaxed position.

HACHIJI DACHI
(OPEN- LEG STANCE)

HEIKO DACHI
(PARALLEL STANCE)

Kosa Dachi (Crossed-Feet Stance)

This is found in katas Heian Godan, Jion and Enpi. The stance involves crossing the feet, and pushing the knees tightly together, one behind the other. This gives increased support and stability to the front leg. Put the left foot behind the right, but keep the left heel raised off the floor. Bend the knees and keep the back straight.

Sanchin Dachi (Hour-Glass Stance)

This is a stance of inside tension; meaning the knees are pushed inwards. Stand in Heiko Dachi, the feet one hip-width apart, turning the feet slightly inwards. Move the left foot forwards, so that the heel is online with the toe of your right foot. Keep knees slightly bent. Tense the inner thighs, and pull up through the hips. This stance is found in Nijushiho.

Uchi Hachiji Dachi (inverted Open-Leg Stance)

Stand with feet one shoulder-width apart. Point the toes in at 45 degrees.

MUSUBI DACHI
(INFORMAL ATTENTION STANCE, FEET TURNED OUT)

RENOJI DACHI
(L STANCE)

The balance of victory and defeat often hangs on simple matters

Gichin Funakoshi