The College of Martial Science

First, read the Kicking e-book before you start learning your Kicks.

Kicking is an essential part of the martial arts and learning to master kicking skills is a process of hard work.

Kicks enhance your effectiveness as a Total Warrior, increasing stability in balance, strength and coordination.

They can be used very effectively in an offensive or defensive situation.

There are many ways to kick as well as there are a great variety of kicks. When practicing kicks, it is important to warm up so as not to pull any muscles or ligaments. Be sure and practice kicks on both legs equally.

Kicking motions

Each kick follows the steps below for full execution, but remember, there are no exact laws as how to kick or punch, only guidelines to build a better practitioner.

The coil position

In training, most kicks come from the coil position. This simply means bringing the knee up. It keeps your opponent from knowing what kick you will throw and gives you protection against incoming kicks.

The pivot

This is a step, slide or small twist of the ground leg used on some kicks before extension to get into the position desired for maximum power. The pivot is usually performed on the ball of the foot.

The extension

This is the actual kick or attack with the leg fully extended

The recoil

This is the immediate return after the kick has been executed, bring the leg back and the knee up to maintain protection.

NOTE:
Each kick follows these steps. But remember, there are no exact laws as to how you should kick or punch, only guidelines to build a better practitioner.

FRONT SNAP KICK

Below is a list of kicks and their primary striking areas. Each kick has various uses and the list is to be used as a guide..

Striking surface
Ball of foot

Striking area
Solar Plexus/Groin

Used to attack smaller targets with speed and accuracy

A. Extend the leg by pushing the ball of the foot into its target

B. Pull the kick back as fast as possible

Targeted areas

Groin - knees/shins - body/solar plexus - face

Applications:

Kicking targeted areas as a break up defense

Jamming incoming attacks

Coil position to block and defend

Beach stance kick - Sitting with one knee up - lift body with one leg and hands and kick up at opponent - They dont see it coming - surprise attack

FRONT THRUST KICK

Used for power, knocking away an obstacle or breaking through.

A. Lift the knee close to the chest

B. Push out as you step forward kicking with the heel of the foot

Below is a list of kicks and their primary striking areas. Each kick has various uses and the list is to be used as a guide..

Striking Surface:

Heel of foot

Striking area:

Chest, Knee, Back

Applications:

Jamming attacks

Push away opponent - objects

Kicking open doors

FRONT RISING KICK

Striking Surface:

Top of foot

Striking Area:

Groin

This kick is usually used by street fighters and uncoordinated kickers

Applications:

Kicking in an upwards direction

Kicking to groin

Kicking to face/body while bent over

Kick up objects (such as sand) with foot at opponent

Target Areas

Groin - Face