Korean Karate. Sihak H. Cho

this movement is used for a fast counterattack after a short distance step away from the opponent's advance. Avoid the frequent application of this step in free fighting unless you become expert at it, since it can leave you in a vulnerable position with your back exposed to the opponent's continuous attack.

      Bring your front foot across the body line, with your arms guarding your front-facing ribs and kidney. As soon as the foot lands on its new spot, follow with your rear foot so you face the opponent directly. While stepping with the front foot, you may make an arm block if necessary. This kind of step is particularly good against a thrusting attack from a side-facing position, and its use may put you into an advantageous position for fast counter moves.

      Circle Stepping. This step is made by moving your rear foot outward in a circular direction while the front foot barely moves. Your arms must remain guarding the front-facing area of your body while stepping.

      This type of step is primarily for defensive purposes. When you intend to make a fast counterattack or if you have no other choice against the opponent's unexpected attack, you can defend with circle stepping in order to hide the exposed area of your front body. However, this is an advanced movement that should only be applied in extreme circumstances, since it can result in a dangerous loss of balance. However, if it is performed with the front foot withdrawing slightly backward, this almost completely eliminates the possibility of destroyed balance, allowing you the proper position for a fast-following move.

      Others. Some karate practitioners move around their opponents in a side direction by stepping to the side in order to create an opening. This type of step is sometimes advantageous because the opponent cannot easily detect one's intentions; therefore, he cannot easily score on the moving target. However, this can be a somewhat dangerous step if the direction is discovered, since one is in a very weak defensive position.