Kihon
基本
Basic techniques of Japanese martial arts and their repeated practice: stances, punches, kicks and blocks. In karate it forms a triad with kata and kumite.
Quick Facts
Word breakdown
Definition
Kihon (基本) means “foundation” or “fundamentals”. In Japanese martial arts it denotes the basic techniques on which all further training rests, and at the same time their repeated practice. In karate, kihon includes stances, punches, kicks and blocks, and together with kata and kumite forms the triad from which training is composed. The term is also used in kendo and other Japanese arts. Kihon is practised often, in many dojo at every training session. The aim is correct body shape, breathing and concentration in every single technique, because more complex movements in kata and in kumite are then built from them.
In practice
In karate, kihon is practised in rows on the instructor's command, who names the technique and counts repetitions. The same techniques are repeated again and again, with emphasis on precise form, breathing and the right spirit. Advanced karateka practise kihon like beginners, because it underlies all more complex movements.
Relations to other terms
See also
A prescribed sequence of movements against imaginary opponents or with a partner, literally “form”. The core of teaching in karate, judo, kendo and aikido.
Kumite組手The part of karate in which one trains against an opponent: from pre-agreed exchanges through semi-free sparring to free and competition fights.