Karate Posture Exercises

Whether you're new to karate or have participated in the sport before, knowing a number of stances, or postures, will ensure that you are physically in control and ready for your opponent. Performing karate posture exercises teaches you how to properly fill and empty your lungs to improve performance and stretch the body to improve flexibility, which is always important before a match or training session.

Instructions

    • 1

      Move into the natural stance position. Stand upright with your back straight. Drop your arms down to your sides. Relax your body, but keep your head up.

    • 2

      Control your core abdominal muscles and breathing pattern. Draw in a deep breath. Wait a second and then exhale. Repeat. Hold your breath a second and then exhale until your lungs are empty. Continue for 60 to 90 seconds or 12 to 14 repetitions.

    • 3

      Extend your arms upward, as high above your head as possible without straining. As you exhale, reach forward and press the palms of your hands, if possible, to your toes. Alternatively, press the tips of your fingers to your toes or suspend your hands just above your toes. Return to an upright position and repeat.

    • 4

      Improve lower body posture. Kick one leg as high as you comfortably can without risking strain or injury. Hold your leg as close to your chest as comfortably possible, exerting enough pressure to keep your leg straight. Repeat for 12 to 14 repetitions and then switch legs.

    • 5

      Change your posture. Go from a half-moon stance to a forward stance by spreading your feet shoulder width apart. Point your toes forward and bend your knees, which should bow out only slightly. Your posture is correct when you feel slight pressure in your legs and hips.

    • 6

      Pass your right leg in front of your body about 18 inches away. Bend your knee slightly so it is just below hip level. Pass your other leg back and hold. You will feel the even distribution of your body across both your feet, which should be placed firmly on the ground.