Innovation in Zenkutsu-Dachi - Rados Savic

ZENKUTSU-DACHI | Rados Savic
It offers a possibility for testing its' functionality and efficacy of adjusting the angle of the
foot. The objective of this research is going beyond the accepted, standard way of practicing
Zenkutsu-Dachi, as well as changing from one stance to another. Results vary depending on
the height and length of the stance, as well as the surface, but the angle of the back foot plays
a vital role in all these situations.
Where is the problem? In order to more seriously approach this matter, knowledge of
physiology and biomechanics is needed. This time particular variations of the scholastic and
fight stance of Zenkutsu-Dachi will not be examined even though it is the basis for the
position, but this time it is not the subject matter. The angle of back foot should not be
neglected as it is extremely important. Hidden explosive power, distance and angle of feet
depends on individual anthropological characteristics. The most ideal angle of the back foot
is 0 degrees in relation to direction of movement. The problem is the role that antagonistic
muscles have and their immediate effect on kinematics and dynamics of movement, intensity
and sequential action of muscular forces. Another issue is the muscle behavior and its place
in the kinetic chain which consists of beginning position, duration and speed of the
movement, in Zenkutsu-Dachi. Developing speed, and most efficient use of pre-determined
speed, requires a very subtle intramuscular coordination of muscle groups in the lower
extremities. The way that additional strength of the stance and therefore a stronger attack
technique is produced, should also be looked at as well as the main moving force with or
without a lunge. How explosive force functions with subtle and more spontaneous pressure
on the surface where the position of feet, knees, and hips create coordination of movement
while they cancel involvement of antagonist muscles, also needs to be closely examined.
From a biomechanical standpoint, we should look at establishing of more favorable relation
of body levers. Dynamic impact and dynamic response to impact, as well as comparison of
parameters pertaining to the angle of the back foot and its role in showing the true state of the
stance, should also be examined.
When we perform Zenkutsu-Dachi, we should listen to our bodies and work on strengthening
the perception of wholeness of our bodies and correct our motor skills and relax. We should
determine the cause and effect changes or identify the optimal foot angle of 20 degrees and
the most ideal angle of 0 degrees. We should follow the dynamics of the stance as a whole,
which is important for the formation of biomechanical structures of Zekuntsu-Dachi stance.
An example of this technique of movement from this position would be the Gyaku technique
of attack with or without a lunge. Justification of my work can be seen as an attempt to
capture the essence of Zenkutsu-Dachi and discover the natural foot position which is the
basis of the efficiency of its' use. Since stance is the foundation of the technique, I will use
the example of the strongest hand punch – Gyaku-zuki, with and without a lunge. It is
necessary to take a closer look and determine biomechanical base of the stance with the
change of angle of the back foot accompanied by forward movement.
7