Introduction ✨
At the Purple Belt level, Karate training moves from basic strikes and blocks to advanced techniques and combinations, especially kicking (Keri Kihon). Proper kicks require not only power but also balance, timing, and body awareness.
This session focuses on front kicks (Mae Geri), roundhouse kicks (Mawashi Geri), and side kicks (Yoko Geri). You will also practice combinations and balance drills, preparing you for sparring and higher Kata.
Advanced Kicking Techniques 🦵
1. Front Kick (Mae Geri) 🚀
- Focus on snapping the kick from the hip while keeping your supporting leg stable.
- Practice chambering the knee high before extending.
💡 Tip: Imagine striking a target just above your waist — accuracy matters more than height.
2. Roundhouse Kick (Mawashi Geri) 🔄
- Pivot on the supporting foot for maximum rotation.
- Snap the leg with the ball of the foot or instep.
💡 Tip: Keep your upper body upright and guard hand up for defense.
3. Side Kick (Yoko Geri) ➡️
- Extend the leg sideways while pushing the heel forward.
- Maintain balance by bending the supporting knee slightly and rotating the hip.
💡 Tip: The power comes from your hip rotation, not just the leg.
Combination Drills 🔗
- Mae Geri → Mawashi Geri: Step forward with a front kick, immediately follow with a roundhouse kick.
- Yoko Geri → Mae Geri: Side kick, retract, then snap a front kick.
- 3-Kick Flow Drill: Front kick → Roundhouse kick → Side kick, repeat slowly to master control, then gradually speed up.
💡 Tip: Always return to your stance after each kick to maintain balance and posture.
Balance and Strength Drills ⚖️💪
- Single-leg holds: Lift one leg in chambered position for 10–15 seconds.
- Kick against a wall or partner pad: Focus on control, not just power.
- Core stability exercises: Planks, rotational twists, and hip lifts enhance kicking precision.
Instructor Tips for Purple Belt Keri Kihon 💡
- Never sacrifice stance for height — balance first.
- Engage your core in every kick for stability and power.
- Retract kicks quickly to return to fighting stance.
- Visualize an opponent or target for each technique.
- Keep guard hands high while kicking.
- Practice kicks both front and back leg for symmetry.
- Train slowly first, then gradually increase speed and power.
- Include shadow sparring with kicks to build flow.
- Focus on breathing: exhale sharply with each kick.
- Record yourself to analyze form and angles.
- Stretch consistently to maintain flexibility.
- Incorporate low kicks to improve leg muscle endurance.
- Use a mirror to ensure correct hip rotation.
- Maintain mental focus — kicking is as much about precision as strength.
- End each session with a cool-down bow 🙇, reinforcing respect and discipline.
Conclusion 🌟
Purple Belt Keri Kihon training is about refining technique, building power, and mastering control. By practicing combinations of front, roundhouse, and side kicks with balance drills, you prepare your body for sparring, Kata, and more advanced levels.
Remember: quality over quantity. Each kick, each chamber, and each return to stance builds the foundation for higher-level mastery. Keep training, stay disciplined, and your Karate journey will reach new heights. 🥋🔥
