Probably the hardest karate stance is kokutsu-dachi (back stance). Here is a picture of our resident international instructor, Andre Bertel Sensei (6th Dan), performing his strong kokutsu-dachi.
The key point for all stances is to master the form as best you can, but with kumite always in mind. It doesn't matter if your stance looks nice or not, what matters is that you have the correct form, balance, power and zanshin.
Like all techniques, stances are only useful when practically trained.
OSS, Lyall Stone
Christchurh Karate Club Chief Instructor
