Stances • Shizen-tai and Foundational Postures

Shotokai Karate-do • Technical Descriptions • Postures (Dachi)

The traditional postures bequeathed to us by past masters form the root of all movement in Karate-do. They include:

Natural Stance (Hachiji-dachi / Shizen-tai)
Reverse Natural Stance (Gyaku hachiji-dachi)
Closed-Foot Stance (Heisoku-dachi)
Attention Stance (Musubi-dachi)
Parallel Stance (Heiko-dachi)
Straddle / Horse-Riding Stance (Kiba-dachi)
Back Stance (Kokutsu-dachi)
Cat Stance (Nekoashi-dachi)
Forward Stance (Zenkutsu-dachi)
Hourglass Stance (Sanchin-dachi)

Postures introduced or formalized in more modern study include the square stance (Shiko-dachi) and the immovable stance (Fudo-dachi).

The Natural Stance • Hachiji-Dachi (Shizen-Tai)

As its name implies, this is the most natural of all Karate postures. It is also called Shizen-tai, literally meaning "natural body stance." It is the parent of all other stances, which can be understood as dynamic variations emerging from it.

When standing in Shizen-tai, one should feel completely harmonious, integrated with nature and the surrounding environment. In older training, it was customary to stand rigidly, with all muscles tightened and on alert; however, Master Gichin Funakoshi and Master Shigeru Egami emphasized that this is the exact opposite of a true natural stance.

Key Points:

Position the ankles approximately shoulder-width apart, with toes angled naturally slightly outward.
Eliminate all excess tension from the hands, legs, knees, hips, abdomen, and shoulders.
Stand relaxed and tranquil, as if the entire body were merged seamlessly into the atmosphere. While appearing deceptively simple, achieving a truly relaxed, natural posture is deeply challenging.

Closed-Foot Stance • Heisoku-Dachi

From the natural stance, gently draw the feet together until the inner edges touch. While doing so, observe the change in the body: compare this sensation with other stances and feel how the center of gravity settles. The knees should remain straight yet completely relaxed, never hyperextended or locked.