Basic But Devastating Techniques - The Round House Kick

The round-house kick (also know as the "round" kick, or front hook kick) is one of the three essential kicking techniques for both fighting and self defense; the other two being the front kick and the side kick. It has become popular through its usage in mixed martial arts, specifically in the martial art of Muay Thai. It is also used as an essential sparring tool in Taekwondo and for fighting in Kyukushin Karate. It is a quick and extremely useful kick; but if practiced enough, it can also become powerful. This article deals with three different styles of the round-house kick.

Execution and Proper Technique

When starting out, lift up your knee with the rest of your leg tuck downwards as if your were about to execute a front kick. Now tilt your knee inwards across your body while lifting the foot upwards. (This will take quite a bit of flexibility to do, but you must be able to do it for correct, quick, powerful round house kicks.) Finally, kick the leg around just like you would a front kick, but sideways.

Tips and Usage

There are three places you can make contact with when using the round kick. Each one is a different style of kicking, and may require you to adjust to it. The first is the top of the foot, where the ankle connects to the foot. The second method is to throw back your toes and kick with the ball of your foot. The third method is to get closer and use the inside of your shin.

Make sure that when you are kicking that your leg stays relaxed until contact, just like a punch. If you train this technique, you be able to sneak it in and hit your opponent every time! This kick is a valuable addition to any martial artist's arsenal.

Joshua started his martial journey in the art of Tae kwon do, and holds a rank of second degree black belt. He has since developed a love for Chinese martial arts and currently studies Wing Chun Kung fu. He has dabbled in many styles, including: Matsubayashi Shorin-ryu Karate, Five Animal Kung fu, Capoeira, Taiji quan, Krav Maga, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Jeet Kune Do, American Kenpo and Eskrima/Arnis. Joshua also loves to write, and is inspired by his strong Christian Faith. He has been studying martial arts for ten years.

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