The Uraken Uchi, or back strike, is a relatively quick strike that can be great for an opening move in a tournament or a fight situation. The Uraken Uchi can be more effective when it’s coupled with another strike or kick as part of a combination, or even a quick counter attack. Although it’s not the most powerful technique in Go Kan Ryu Karate, it’s quickness makes it deadly. A back strike to an opponents nose can stun and daze the opponent, causing them retreat to a more defensive position which will give you the opportunity to go on the offensive. Other then the face, however, the back strike should not be used to strike or you risk the possibility of damaging your hand or wrist.
To perform this technique, start in a traditional GKR fighting stance. Make sure your hands are raised a little higher and normal so they are around the bottom of your jaw. Since your arms are raised higher then normal, it will expose more of your midsection. If you tuck your elbows in, you’ll provide your ribs with more protection. From this position, simply punch forward towards where your opponent’s face would be by extending your arm.
One of the main differences between the back strike and regular punch is that one has to rotate their arm before they punch forward. As your arm is moving towards your opponent, your palm and the soft part of your forearm should be facing upwards . The second difference is very important. When striking, one should aim for a little above the opponent’s nose. As your fist is about to make contact, relax your wrist instead of tensing it and bring it down as quick as possible so that you strike the bridge of your opponents nose with your knuckles. When done, bring your arm back to the position it began in as quickly as possible. With enough practice, one can develop very quick speed.
This strike can be performed with either your leading hand or your rear hand, though most people strike with their leading hand. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
1. Make sure you rotate your arm before you strike so that you can successfully strike the bridge of your opponent’s nose with your knuckles.
2. Don’t use this strike on other parts of the body. It will be far less effective and will likely do more harm than good.
3. Keep the arm that isn’t striking in a guard position so your body stays protected throughout. Also remember to keep your elbows in tighter to protect your ribs.