Kakato Geri Meaning in Karate

Kakato Geri is a devastating karate strike known as the axe kick or the heel drop. The practitioner raises the leg high in the air and brings the heel down like an axe. This move targets the head or the collarbone of an opponent with the full force of gravity. It can be performed by swinging the leg from the inside or the outside of the body. The power of the strike comes from the rapid downward acceleration of the heavy leg muscles. An athlete drops their heel onto a practice pad during a specialized high level drill. Proper balance is critical because the practitioner is briefly standing on one leg during the swing. This kick is very effective for breaking through a low or a medium guard.