Uppercut
Ura tsuki (literally: “inverted/hidden-fist thrust”) is the karate equivalent of a boxer’s uppercut. Uppercuts are essentially vertical hook punches, which are used to attack an opponent’s solar plexus, or under their chin. Uppercuts are extremely efficient and powerful techniques, but their limited range renders them only usable in the clinch.
Uppercuts start out like any other punch, to prevent telegraphing. Then, twist your hips towards your opponent, and drive your elbow towards and slightly-up your centerline, like a forward elbow strike. For a faster technique, picturing your elbow pushing your fist, and not your flying fist pulling your elbow behind it. Your fist does not turn over, to ensure that you impact the opponent with your knuckles, and not your fingers. Simultaneously pull your opposite-side hand to its hip, for reciprocal action.
[Video of uppercuts fast and slow, from the front and side.]
Because uppercuts operate over short ranges with no turn-over, they need a significant drive from your hips, legs, and core. Uppercuts can deliver incredible power, but only with incredibly efficient biomechanics. As such, they are typically reserved for advanced students.
Uppercuts are difficult to defend against, since they act quickly, and just outside of the opponent’s field-of-view. This is why ura tsuki can be alternately translated as a “hidden punch.”
