Karate: Parts of the Body 6

Sokuto

The foot is bent sideways to expose the side, between the heel and baby toe. The four toes are bent down, while the big toe is bent up. This position requires maximum concentration.

Kakato

This is the heel. To reduce the risk of traumas on this area, the angle of the foot should be as sharp as possible. Use your muscles to pull the toes towards the knee. There are some ligaments that go from the heel up. DO NOT USE THEM to deliver an attack. It will only cause you a lot of pain; and besides, it will not stop your opponent. Instead, use the heel itself. This part of your body is naturally conditioned, as we are always walking on it.

Teisoku

This area is used for blocks and trips. Keep in mind that when this is performed with enough power, the block can be considered an attack.

Hiza

This is the knee. As with the kakato, the angle should be as sharp as possible to make the kneecap solid. Still, the knee cap area can ONLY be used to attack abdominal muscles, as they are soft. If you want to attack, for example the opponent's forehead (assuming, he bends down), then you should use the area ABOVE the kneecap. You will not create any damage there, if you do.

Atama

The head can be used for blocks and for attacks, too. However, it is very important to know exactly which areas to use and how to concentrate. This technique can be learned by the book in its basic form (head to face attack on occasion in close range fights). But if you want to learn how to break wood with your head, you should find a teacher who will teach you how to do it properly.

Tsumasaku

The tips of the toes are used for attacks. However, due to the rate of difficulty in learning this technique, it is not recommended for beginners.