Tenkan Meaning in Karate

Tenkan is a defensive movement in karate that translates to the action of turning or pivoting. The practitioner rotates their body on the ball of one foot to redirect an oncoming force. This movement allows a person to step out of the path of an attack while staying close. It uses the circular momentum of the body to guide an opponent past the intended target area. This pivot is essential for maintaining balance while changing directions quickly during a multiple person fight. An athlete pivots on the front foot to avoid a charging opponent during a drill. Staying upright during the turn ensures that the center of gravity remains stable and well controlled. Smooth rotation prevents the feet from becoming tangled during a high speed defensive maneuver in class.