Ura Zuki Meaning in Karate

Ura Zuki describes an inverted punch where the palm faces toward the ceiling. A student keeps the elbow bent and strikes in an upward or forward motion. The fist does not rotate at all during the execution of this move. This strike works best when the opponent stands very close to the body. A karate student uses this punch to target the ribs or the stomach area. The power of the strike comes from a sudden and sharp hip rotation. Keeping the shoulder relaxed allows the arm to move with maximum fluid speed. This technique is common in many traditional kata or formal movement patterns. It teaches the student how to generate power in confined spaces during combat.