Sune (脛)

Introduction

Sune (脛) refers to the shin. In Kyokushin it is not a primary kihon striking surface, but it is an important contact and blocking surface in kumite and in leg-to-leg encounters.

Definition

The front of the lower leg between the knee and foot functions as the contact zone.

Terminology

Japanese: 脛
Romaji: sune
English: shin

System position

Sune functions mainly as:

• a blocking surface
• a contact point
• a functional surface in kumite

Structure / Form

• keep the leg stable with knee and foot aligned
• use the front of the shin as the contact zone
• control contact through angle and timing
• prevent the knee or ankle from collapsing

Contact surface

Primary: front of the shin.
Avoid unintended contact with the knee joint, ankle joint or foot.

Basic principles

The structure must remain stable so the shin can receive or create contact without losing alignment. Timing and angle determine whether the action blocks, redirects or interrupts the opponent's kick.

Use

Sune appears in sune-uke, mawashi-sune-uke, defense against gedan mawashi geri and leg-to-leg contact in kumite.

Training

Use partner drills, controlled contact and timing practice. Build tolerance gradually while prioritizing structure, angle and control.

Common errors

• unstable leg structure
• incorrect contact angle
• poor timing
• collapsing knee or ankle alignment

Summary

Sune (脛) is the shin used mainly as a controlled blocking and contact surface in Kyokushin.