Mawashi Geri • Roundhouse Kick

Shotokai Karate Budo • Technical Descriptions • Leg Techniques (Ashi Waza)

To execute Mawashi Geri, evade the direct line of the incoming attack by stepping slightly off-angle with the supporting foot.

Rotate the hips dynamically in a circular trajectory so that the striking surface—either the ball of the foot (koshi) with toes pulled back, or the instep (haisoku)—arcs inward, impacting perpendicular to the side of the opponent's torso, ribs, or neck.

While the chambering mechanics share fundamental similarities with the front kick (Mae Geri), the distinctive rotational pivot of the supporting foot and the horizontal plane of the hip rotation set Mawashi Geri apart, as shown in the archival photographs below.

Photographic Reference

1. Hip Rotation

2. Arc Extension

3. Impact Alignment

Technical Navigation

• ← Return to Technical Descriptions Index
• → Front Kick (Mae Geri)
• → Back Kick (Ushiro Geri)
• → Side Kicks (Other Leg Techniques)