Yup, this is the painful one. You'll learn more about your spirit and determination by the amount of time you can hold this stance, than just about anything else you will do in the dojo!

It's another stance found only in the Goju katas. This is the classic Sumo stance, and if you watch the way that Sumo wresters fight, you'll get some idea about the function of this stance. It's used for pulling opponents down or off balance, as seen in Saifa and Seiunchin. It's also used as the preparatory position for liftng as seen in Seiunchin. As demonstrated in Seiunchin and Sepai, it's also ideal for getting beneath an opponent's guard to deliver strikes, whilst minimising body exposure.

It's the lowest of the GKR stances, and that, in combination with its wide, angled foot position makes it very stable and strong.

The width of the legs reduces hip rotation, making this a relatively innefficient stance from which to launch punches and strikes, whilst the stance's lowness requires a substantial shift of weight to deliver kicks.

Found in these katas

Saifa

Seiunchin

Sanseru

Sepai

Karurunfa

Technique

To reach Shiko Dachi, position your feet side-by-side two shoulder-widths apart, and turn your toes outwards so that the OUTSIDE of each foot is at 45 degrees. Your weight should be evenly distributed between your legs. Now lower your weight so that your knees are bent almost to a right-angle. It's important not to go so low that you are forced to compromise your position by leaning forwards. However, over time your spinal suppleness will improve and your muscles will adapt so that you can get lower without bending or hurting as much.

Remember, the higher your grade, the lower your stance!

Common mistakes to avoid

Don't stick your butt out

Don't lean forwards

Don't allow either of your knees to collapse in

Don't turn your toes out too far

Don't stand too wide or narrow