Martial Arts Glossary
Glossary of commonly used terms in the Japanese martial arts.
Glossaries
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Nagewaza | Nagewaza (投げ技)Nagewaza is a traditional Japanese martial arts term meaning "throwing techniques" or "projection techniques". It encompasses any method of off-balancing an opponent and projecting them to the ground. While most famously categorized as a core pillar of Judo and Aikido, nagewaza also plays a vital, advanced role in traditional Karate (particularly in classical Okinawan styles and older Shotokan applications).
Author - Sensei Miller
Hits - 12 Synonyms -
Throwing techniques, Projection techniques, Sweeps and throws |
| Neko-ashi-dachi | Neko-ashi-dachi (猫足立ち)Neko-ashi-dachi is a fundamental and highly versatile stance in Shotokan karate, commonly translated as the "cat foot stance" or "cat stance". It is characterized by an uneven distribution of body weight, where the vast majority of the practitioner's weight rests on the back leg, leaving the front foot poised lightly on the ball of the foot as if a cat is ready to pounce.
Author - Sensei Miller
Hits - 21 Synonyms -
Cat stance, Cat foot stance, Neko dachi |
| Ni | Ni (二)Ni is the Japanese numerical term for "two". In traditional Japanese martial arts, including Shotokan karate, it is commonly used in numbering sequences, counting repetitions during physical conditioning, identifying specific techniques, or designating formal ranks and partner drills.
Author - Sensei Miller
Hits - 26 Synonyms -
Two, Second, Secondary |
| Nukite | Nukite (貫手)Nukite is a traditional striking technique in Shotokan karate and other striking arts, commonly translated as the "spear hand" or "piercing hand". It is a linear thrust executed with the fingertips rather than the knuckles, primarily targeting soft or vulnerable anatomical regions such as the eyes, throat, or solar plexus.
Author - Sensei Miller
Hits - 18 Synonyms -
Spear hand, Piercing hand, Finger thrust |