Zenkutsu Datchi, or the Long Forward Stance, is one of the basic stances of GKR Karate. To perform this stance, start with your legs shoulder width apart. Take your left leg and move it about two shoulder widths forward and bend your knee — this should leave your right leg outstretched behind you at a 45 degree angle, almost like your lunging but with your back leg straight. Be sure not to lock your back knee out completely though; this can cause damage over time. The back foot should also be facing outwards at a 45 degree angle. The front knee should be bent at a 90 degree angle so that your shin is vertical. You should be able to just barely see your front toes while your back is straight. Two thirds of your bodyweight should be placed on the front leg.
The Zenkutsu Datchi is one of the first stances that students will learn in GKR Karate. It’s used for various punches, kicks, blocks, and katas. The long stance puts emphasis on the thigh muscles and builds their strength over time, which allows for more explosive movement. It also provides strong resistance against frontal attacks, especially since it minimizes the amount of frontal body area available due to the low height. This reduces the area of attack the opponent has on a person. Your hip rotation depends on the kind of move that is being executed in the stance. When throwing a punch or kick, your hips will face forward, and while blocking, they will generally be at a 45 degree angle.
There are several common mistakes to avoid:
1. Don’t allow the back foot to turn out too far, as this will lock out the knee and make the stance immobile.
2. It is critical that the back knee does not bend.
3. Make sure your hips are facing the proper direction for the technique you are trying to perform.
4. Don’t allow yourself to stand tall; get low, as this will prevent you from getting tired.
5. Don’t let your stance be too wide or too narrow; pay attention to these when first stepping forward or when you’re turning.
6. Make sure your front knee isn’t directly in front of you and is pushed out to the side shoulder width apart.
7. Don’t scrunch up your toes when you grip the floor, as this opens you up to foot stamps which would be very dangerous to you.