Keiko (鶏口)

Introduction

Keiko (鶏口) is a hand form in which the fingertips are gathered into a point. It is more common in kempo than in karate and is used for short, directed strikes.

Definition

The four fingertips meet to form the contact point while the thumb supports the form from below.

Terminology

Japanese: 鶏口
Romaji: keiko
English: chicken-beak hand / pointed hand

Structure / Form

• bend the four fingers at the knuckles and bring the fingertips together
• place the thumb under the tip of the middle finger to support the form
• keep the back of the hand facing upward
• keep the wrist stable; a quick wrist snap may reinforce impact

Striking surface

Primary: the point formed by the fingertips.
Avoid contact with the sides of the fingers, palm or thumb.

Basic principles

Keep the hand compact and the fingertip point stable. Force is transferred through the kinetic chain:

ground → legs → hips → trunk → shoulder → arm → striking surface

Kime concentrates force at the moment of impact.

Execution

Use a short, directed path without unnecessary tension. Contact with the fingertip point and retract immediately.

Training

Train with controlled repetitions and precision work. Focus on joined fingertips, thumb support, a stable wrist and a clear contact point.

Common errors

• separated fingertips
• incorrect thumb support
• contact with the sides of the fingers or palm
• missing wrist snap when the variation requires it

Summary

Keiko (鶏口) is defined by joined fingertips, thumb support from below and a compact pointed striking surface.