Kick

The Art of Kicks: A Universal Form of Aggression

Imagine stepping into a martial arts dojo or a sports arena, where the air is thick with anticipation. What do you see? A flurry of movements, swift and powerful, that leave your mind racing. These are kicks—swift, precise, and often awe-inspiring. But what exactly are they, and how have they evolved over time?

A Brief History of Kicks

Kicks are a universal act of aggression, used in countless forms of martial arts and sports. From the ancient foot-fighting art of Taekkyeon to the modern mixed martial arts (MMA) arena, kicks have been a cornerstone of combat for centuries. But how did they get here? The history of kicks is as complex as it is fascinating.

High kicks, in particular, have their roots in East-Asian styles such as Bartitsu and Savate. These kicks were developed to keep opponents at a distance, surprise them, and inflict damage. They are often directed at vulnerable targets below the chest, but experts recommend aiming no higher than the waist/stomach to avoid grappling.

Types of Kicks: A Comprehensive Guide

Now that we’ve touched on the history let’s dive into the different types of kicks. Each one has its unique purpose and technique, making them a vital part of any martial artist or fighter’s arsenal.

The Roundhouse Kick

The roundhouse kick is perhaps one of the most recognizable and powerful kicks in martial arts. It involves swinging the leg sideways in a circular motion, with various variations based on chambering and footwork possibilities. This kick is often performed at low level against targets like knees or calf due to its power.

The Front Kick

Delivering a front kick requires raising the knee and foot to the desired height, extending the leg to contact the target. The strike can be delivered by the ball of the foot for a forward kick or the top of the toes for an upward kick. This versatile technique is used in various martial arts styles.

The Side Kick

A side kick is delivered sideways in relation to the body, with various impact points depending on the technique used. It can be performed with the heel or outer edge of the foot, and there are variations that involve faking a roundhouse. In Korean martial arts, several kicks are recognized including:

• Yeop chagi (dragon kick)
• Donkey kick
• Mule kick
• Horse kick
• Turning back kick
• Half-moon kick

Advanced Kicks: A Showcase of Skill and Power

As we move into more advanced kicks, the techniques become even more intricate. Here are a few examples:

• Axe Kick: This kick involves striking with the heel from the side.
• Hammer Kick: A powerful strike using the top of the foot.
• Stretch Kick: An elongated kick that targets different areas of the body.
• Butterfly Kick: A unique kick where both legs are used to target multiple opponents or take them down.
• Calf Kick: Striking with the calf, often used in Taekwondo and other styles.
• Crescent Kick: An inward crescent kick hits with the inside edge of the foot, while an outward crescent kick uses the outside edge. Both generate force from both legs’ movement towards the midline of the body.

Flying Kicks: Aerial Agility and Power

Flying kicks are a spectacle in their own right. These involve a running start, jump, then a kick in mid-air, achieving greater momentum from the run. Flying side kicks, flying back kicks, and flying roundhouse kicks are common variations. The showtime kick gained notoriety after being used by Anthony Pettis during a fight, where he ran up the cage, jumped off, and landed a switch kick while airborne.

Scissor Kicks: A Dazzling Display of Skill

Scissor kicks involve swinging out the legs to kick multiple targets or take down an opponent. Popularized versions in Taekwondo, capoeira, and Vovinam showcase the agility and power required for such a move.

Spinning Heel Kicks: A 360-Degree Showdown

Spinning heel kicks involve turning 360 degrees before landing on the target. This technique is commonly used in martial arts films and demonstrations, adding an element of surprise and power to any fight.

Olympic Taekwondo: Precision and Power

In Olympic taekwondo, techniques are performed differently than other styles of martial arts. The balls of the feet are used instead of the circular motion adopted in other styles. The wheel kick was first seen at UFC 142, where Edson Barboza knocked out Terry Etim with a wheel kick. It is found in Muay Thai and is known as armada.

Conclusion: Kicks—A Universal Language of Combat

Kicks are not just techniques; they are a language that transcends cultures and styles. From the ancient foot-fighting arts to modern MMA, kicks have evolved into an art form that demands precision, power, and agility. Whether you’re stepping into a dojo or watching a fight on TV, remember: every kick tells a story of skill, determination, and the universal human desire for self-defense and combat.