Kin-Geri is the groin kick of Karate. It gets its force by swinging the leg upwards. It’s needless to say that it’s not allowed in Kumite competitions (besides some very rare and probably illegal examples). In self-defense it can be a great business-ender especially when dealing with a male attacker.

Traditional execution:

• Get in Heiko Dachi
• Charge your leg low by bending your leg by 90° and extend it in one single movement
• Kiai! at maximum extention (optional)
• While retracting perform another move (e.g: another Kin-Geri)

Variations:

• When targeting the quads instead of the groin is refered to as Gedan-Geri.

Kekomi adjustements:

• Don’t snap your leg back

Where to use (✅ - Use; ❌ - Don’t use; 🟨 - Last resource):

• Sport Kumite: ❌
• Full-Contact Kumite: ❌
• Self-Defense: ✅

Video examples:

• Kin geri