With Yoshukai Karate as its foundation, YKF practices the traditions and language of Yoshukai Karate as part of our daily training. 

Learning basic japanese terminology not only helps students understand the techniques more deeply but also fosters respect for the martial art’s rich cultural heritage. This page provides definitions and translations for commonly used terms in class — from stances and strikes to etiquette and counting. Whether you’re a new student or seasoned practitioner, this guide will help you speak the language of karate with confidence and clarity.

Japanese Terminology

Yoshukai – Strive for Excellence

Yoshukai Byword – Patience

Kanji Meaning – The character breaks down into perseverance and the strength to remain calm and patient even when facing difficulties or hardships.

Five Precepts for Learners

Respect and Manners

Be Prudent in Action

Be Prudent in Speech

Keep Yourself High Spirited

Keep Yourself Clean

Karate Related Terms

Instructor – Sensei

Karate School – Dojo

Black Belt – Yudancha

Underbelt – Kyu

Attention – Kiyotsuke

Prepare – Yoi

Begin – Hajime

Finish – Yame

Uniform – Gi

Belt – Obi

Bow – Rei

Yell – Kiai

Relax – Yasume

Open Eyes – Kaimoku

Close Eyes – Mokuso

Kneel Down – Seiza

Stand Up – Kiritsu

Line Up – Seiretsu

Stances (Dachi)

Front Stance – Zenkutsudachi

Straddle Stance – Shikodachi

Ready Stance – Uchihaichiji

Attention Stance – Musubidachi

Immovable Stance – Fudodachi

Scissor Stance – Hasamidachi

Natural Stance – Shizendachi

Cat Stance – Neko Ashidachi

Crane Stance – Ippon Ashidachi

Horse Stance – Kibadachi

Parallel Stance – Heikodachi

Back Stance – Kokutsudachi

Sword Stance – Iai Goshidachi

Hourglass Stance – Sanchin

Blocks (Uke)

Upper Block – Jodan Uke

Outside Center – Chudan Soto Uke

Inside Center – Chudan Uchi Uke

Down Block – Geden Uke

Cross Block – Juji Uke

Knife Hand Block – Shuto Uke

Elbow Block – Enbi Uke

Knee Block – Hiza Uke

Knuckle Block – Ken Uke

Palm Heel Block – Shotei Uke

Ridge Hand Block – Haito Uke

Back Hand Block – Haisho Uke

Wedge Block – Kakiwake Uke

Double Hand Block – Morote Uke