Green Belt – Stances
*Back Stance – Kokutsu Dachi – 後屈立
In this stance, your front foot will be about 4 steps in front of your rear leg, toes pointing forward. Your rear foot should be angled out a 90 degree angle and be holding about 70% of your weight. Make sure your hips are pointed somewhere in between your two feet, near 45 degrees, and are directly under your shoulders, not pushing out in either direction. Your knees should be pointing in the same direction as your toes rather than in or out. Finally, activate your core and have your hands on guard. The front leg can be straight or slightly bent and your head should point in the same direction as your front foot. This stance is commonly used for defensive maneuvers.
*Back Stance – Kokutsu Dachi – 後屈立
In this stance, your front foot will be about 4 steps in front of your rear leg, toes pointing forward. Your rear foot should be angled out a 90 degree angle and be holding about 70% of your weight. Make sure your hips are pointed somewhere in between your two feet, near 45 degrees, and are directly under your shoulders, not pushing out in either direction. Your knees should be pointing in the same direction as your toes rather than in or out. Finally, activate your core and have your hands on guard. The front leg can be straight or slightly bent and your head should point in the same direction as your front foot. This stance is commonly used for defensive maneuvers.
The following notation has been used: * = Not required to demonstrate on belt test