Other Leg Techniques • Side Kicks (Yoko Geri)

Shotokai Karate Budo • Technical Descriptions • Leg Techniques (Ashi Waza)

Side kicking techniques in Shotokai Karate-do are divided into two fundamental delivery dynamics: the penetrating thrust (Yoko Geri Kekomi) and the percussive upward snap (Yoko Geri Keage).

Material and historical plates drawn from Beyond Technique by Master Shigeru Egami, demonstrated by Sensei Tomoji Miyamoto and Sensei Hiroyuki Aoki.

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1. Yoko Geri Kekomi • Side Thrust Kick

Yoko Geri Kekomi projects the entire body mass through the lateral blade of the foot (sokuto) or heel into the opponent's ribs, solar plexus, or hip joint.

• The kicking knee chambers deeply across the chest, drawn upward and across the body's midline toward the opposite shoulder.
• The supporting foot pivots sharply outward (approximately 180 degrees), opening the hips completely.
• As the hips thrust forward laterally, the kicking leg drives in a straight, penetrating line.
• The striking foot is angled with the outer edge turned sharply upward and the toes pulled back.

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2. Yoko Geri Keage • Side Snap Kick

Yoko Geri Keage is an ascending, whipping kick delivered with the knife-edge of the foot (sokuto), typically targeted under the armpit, floating ribs, or jawline.

• The knee rises vertically along the side of the body.
• The lower leg snaps upward in a fast, elastic arc, pivoting from the knee joint rather than driving through the whole hip.
• Retraction is immediate (hikiashi), returning the foot smoothly to protect against grasping.

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