Soon after starting one’s journey in Shotokan Karate-Do, the very first kick that white belts are introduced to is the Mae-geri or front snap kick. Karateka then spend the rest of their lives practicing and trying to improve this first kick along with the many other techniques they learn along the way. While the front snap kick may be the first and most basic kick that we learn, in order to be done well requires that one develop the same basic skills that all kicks need to be effective: good balance on the supporting leg, a supple ankle and knee, a flexible hip, speed, kime, controlled snapback, accuracy, and the proper placement and alignment of the striking foot upon impact.

While a well-coordinated person can render what appears to be a nice Mae-geri shortly after learning it; iit may take many years of practice to in order to achieve what he/she is truly capable of with this kick.

I’ve often said that when you first learn karate, instructors teach rules of movement and positioning in very black and white terms: “70-30% weight distribution on the front/back legs in zenkutsu-dachi”, “back foot at 45%”, “back leg straight”, “Han-mi (side) position for hip on blocks”, “hips straight on basic punch”, and so on. These are invaluable for the beginner, however, as one practices and progresses in the art, what began as rigid black and white rules begin to take on shades of gray. There are many different ways to achieve the same results, many ways to form a fist, to strike, to block/parry, and so on. The rules of strong basics remain unchanged, but take on many variations and hybridization of movement.

If you continue to practice even the most basic kick, the Mae-geri, you’ll find that there are a variety of ways to deliver it. One of my favorite persons to watch demonstrate Shotokan techniques is Sensei Rick Hatton. If a picture is worth a thousand words, watching him for a few moments can speak volumes to understanding the nuances underlying our most basic kick. Especially make note of how he uses “hip inflection” to subtly change the direction and angle of his Mae-geri.

Of course, all of this is based upon continuing to improve by practicing one’s basics.