Yoi ( Natural Position Or Ready Position)

Yoi ( Natural Position Or Ready Position)

This is the position we go to after the karate bow (rei)

In Heiko-dachi, the feet are approximately shoulder width, outside edges of the feet are parallel. This is also a basic ready stance in Karate.

Shizen-tai or Yoi Dachi – natural position

Shizen-tai or yoi dachi translates as “natural stance” (literally, ‘natural body,’ or ‘natural body stance’). In Shizen-tai, the feet are shoulder width apart, toes pointing forward. The karateka stands up straight, facing forward. While in Shizen-tai, the karateka is usually in the yoi (ready) position, arms slightly in front of the thighs, fists clenched.

In some karate styles, shizen-tai is the same as heiko-dachi.

Yoi (ready position)

Linden Huckle

About the author

Linden Huckle has been practicing and teaching karate for over 50 years and believes first and foremost, karateka should enjoy their karate. He says 'there is nothing better than seeing a person develop into a great person through their karate practice, while at the same time enjoying karate.'

Linden Huckle

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