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Stomping knee joint kick (kansetsu geri)

The knee joint kick (kansetsu geri) is a stomping kick aimed at the opponent’s knee joint. It is an extremely dangerous technique as very little force is required to break a knee joint (around 16lb per square inch). For this reason great care must be used when practising this kicking technique with a partner. It is not recommended to use the knee joint kick in practice sparring for this reason.

How to perform a stomping knee joint kick (kansetsu geri)

Bring the right knee up to about waist level and strike down and outward at an angle of about 45 degrees, striking at the opponent’s knee joint from the side. Curl your toes back and strike with the knife-edge of your foot. Raise your body weight upward as you begin the knee joint kick. Then drop your body weight into the kick to add more power.

The video clip shows Sensei Terry Lyon (5th Dan) performing Stomping Knee Joint Kick (Kansetsu Geri).

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Stomping knee joint kick (kansetsu geri): points to remember

  • Try to remain as upright as possible and avoid leaning to the side.
  • Do not drop your hands as you kick - doing so leaves your head open to attack.
  • This kick can also be used as a stopping technique by kicking at your opponent’s knee or leg from the front.

One comment about “Stomping knee joint kick (kansetsu geri)”

  1. David watson said:

    I know that would really hurt if it hit its mark, but that is very telegraphable with the chambering and all.

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