The Kokutsu Dachi, or back stance, is primarily used for the different kata found in Go Kan Ryu Karate. It is often known as the opposite of the Zenkutsu Dachi, and is most effective as a defensive stance. This stance is found in many other styles and is one of the more recognizable stances by students.
This stance is pretty simple, but there are some technical aspects to keep in mind. Start by placing your left foot forward about one shoulder width. The toes should be face only slightly inward while keeping most of the pressure on the ball of your foot. Take your right foot and place it one shoulder width behind you and slightly out to the side, such that your foot is pointing to the right and the majority of the pressure is kept on the outside of your foot. Unlike other stances, the majority of your weight (around two thirds) should be kept on your back leg.
Your back leg should be more than slightly bent so as to provide stability, while the front leg should be kept slightly bent. Keep your back straight and lean forwards ever so slightly. At this point, your hips should be set at about 45 degrees towards the front. The arms can be kept in any sort of guard motion.
In terms of offense, this stance is most effective when deliver angular strikes and powerful blocks to the arms or neck of an opponent. The Kokutsu Dachi also provides a strong base for grappling situations, and can be used to throw someone or perform a sweep. As mentioned previously, however, its greatest use is when acting as a defensive stance.
To prevent incorrect use of the stance, here are a few things to keep in mind:
1. While it is important to bend the back knee, bending it too far or putting too much weight on the back leg can put too much strain on the knee causing pain. If this occurs, try not to bend the back knee as much.
2. Don’t lean backwards as this severely throws off the stance.
3. A subtle thing to make sure of is that your hips are facing 45 degrees forward and are not set at 90 degrees.
4. Don’t keep the front leg straight, it should be slightly bent at all times.
5. Your back toes should be facing to the side; some students make the mistake of pointing them forward.