Sanchin-dachi

三戦立ち

Rooted, tensioned stance with toes turned inward, central to Naha-te and Goju-ryu Karate.

Quick Facts

CategoryConcept / Principle

Pronunciation/[sahn-cheen dah-chee]/

Alternative NamesThree battles stance, Hourglass stance

Definition

Sanchin-dachi ('Three Battles stance') aligns mind, body, and breath. Feet are shoulder-width apart with toes turned inward and knees flexed. It protects the groin, anchors the lower core (Hara), and conditions the body for impact absorption.

Related Terms

Kiai気合

Martial shout used to focus energy, tighten core muscles, and project intent.

Hara / Tanden腹 / 丹田

Lower abdomen representing the physical and energetic center of balance.

Nigiri-game握り瓶

Pair of wide-rimmed clay jars filled with sand or stones used to build finger strength and grip power.

Associated Martial Arts

Uechi-ryu Jundokan Goju-ryu Byakuren Kaikan Seidokaikan Karate Kyokushin Budokai