Shotokan Kumite Exercise
This shotokan kumite exercise consists of three gyaku zuki (reverse punch) 
attacks, with 3 simultaneous block/reverse punch counters. This is a really good shotokan exercise for timing. This exercise works on the ‘shock attack’. Start slowly, then gradually pick up the speed, until the attacker can add in dummy and feigns before the attacks are launched (see video below).
It takes great timing and spirit, to move towards an on coming attack, but the counter strike can be devastating and it can also completely destroy an opponents attack and also give the defender a huge psychological advantage over the attacker.
This type of counter can cause a ‘Shock Hit’ on your opponent, a ‘Shock Hit’ basically means that as your opponent is about to strike you, you deliver a fast counter strike that they do not expect, it completely takes them by suprise, in their mind, they are about to deliver a devastating blow on you! But just before their attack reaches the target, your counter strike connects and completely shocks their whole body and mind, a ‘Shock Attack’ can instantly finish a fight and it is an area that all karateka should work on, especially where self defence is addressed.
Shotokan Kumite Exercise
1. Attacker – From left leg Jiyu-kumite no kamae (fighting stance), drive in with a right arm gyaku zuki jodan (reverse punch to the head)
2. Defender – From left leg Jiyu-kumite no kamae (fighting stance), drive towards the attack and simultaneously block age uke (upper block), gyaku zuki (reverse punch).
3. Attacker – From left leg Jiyu-kumite no kamae (fighting stance), drive in with a right arm gyaku zuki chudan (reverse punch to the body)
4. Defender – From left leg Jiyu-kumite no kamae (fighting stance), drive towards the attack and simultaneously block soto uke (outside forearm block), gyaku zuki (reverse punch).
5. Attacker – From left leg Jiyu-kumite no kamae (fighting stance), drive in with a right arm gyaku zuki gedan (reverse punch to the bottom of the stomache)
6. Defender – From left leg Jiyu-kumite no kamae (fighting stance), drive towards the attack and simultaneously block gedan barai (downward block), gyaku zuki (reverse punch).
Once this is completed, switch attackers. Also repeat on the right side Jiyu-kumite no kamae (fighting stance), as in the video below.
As with all shotokan kumite exercises, start slowly and only speed up once you feel confident with your techniques. You can practice this alone, but as with all kumite exercises, partner work is needed at some point to full understand everything involved with this combination. If you are practicing this at home, be strong, and at speed, your attitude must be as if your life is in danger. A strong attitude will deliver strong karate. When practicing at speed, be sure and apply the concept of Ikken Hissatsu (to finish with one blow).
Be honest with yourself if you are practicing alone, say to yourself, ‘would i have blocked a strong attack?’ would your counters deliver a devastating blow to your opponent? Many times people just go through the movements and only when someone steps in and really wants to hit them, do they realise their karate techniques do not work. So Be Strong! Oss!
There are hundreds of Shotokan Kumite Exercises you can practice, this one, although very basic, covers many shotokan fundamentals.
Apply these tips to help improve your kumite.
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