The Characteristics of a Great Roundhouse Kick

To Kick…Or Not to Kick…That is the Question

When looking at different techniques in martial arts one cannot go without looking at the round-house kick. The roundhouse kick is a vital technique that is used by almost every martial artist around. There are, just like any other move, typical ways to perform a roundhouse kick the right way. The main kep concepts of a roundhouse kick are your chamber, the pivot of your feet, the movement of your hips , where to hit with your foot and where on the target to hit. Knowing all of these key ideas will ensure you the right way to successfully perform a roundhouse kick.

1. Chamber -  the resting position of the knee bent at an 90degree angle horizontally with the floor. This enables the attacker to kick not only once, but multiple times rather then returning the kick back to your fighting stance.

One example of this can be seen if an attacker is coming towards you and you throw a roundhouse kick but miss but bring your foot back to chamber and release another kick immediately afterward. It’s a buy 1 get 1 free deal.

2. Pivot - The repositioning of your stationary foot to the left or right (depending on your stance) for optimum movement of your hips and kick.

For instance if your feet are facing forward, then pivoting while kicking your foot should be facing to the left or right instead of forward when the kick is being performed.

If you do not pivot it will be very hard to open up your inseam and perform a “successful” roundhouse kick.

3. Hip Movement -  One thing is for sure, is that you must use your hips to gain maximum power in your roundhouse kick. Most of your power will come from your hips with a roundhouse kick.

During your round house kick the more you get your hips moving with the motion of the kick, the more power you will be able to deliver by bring up all that energy from your powerful legs straight into your opponent.

4.  Part of the Foot – the top of the foot and/or the shin as well. Depending on your style or instructor you might kick with the top of your foot or the shin, either way is fine. One thing you do not want to do is kick with the side of your foot. Also another vital lesson is to keep your toes tucked in and make sure you are not hitting with your toes and big toe too.

You could, if kicking hard enough, break one of your toes. So you should keep your foot like a blade and refrain from kicking with your toes.

5. Where to Kick – There are several areas of the body that the roundhouse kick can be delivered.

One of the most important areas is the head and ribs. A strong enough roundhouse kick to the head could easily knock someone out (and even could be fatal).

Attacking the ribs can be a good decision as well, a good rib shot or a shot to the stomach can blow the wind out of your opponent and leave them paralyzed for a few seconds.

Lastly a good kick to the thigh or leg will do as well. A nice big roundhouse kick to the thigh or side of the leg can immobilize your opponent and make it easier for you to move around and pick them off.
Hopefully, when looking at these few key and important steps of a roundhouse kick, you will be able to improve and learn. You can always improve your kicks and punches. The one thing to always remember while practicing is that you are using good and in working condition equipment to ensure proper safety.

A roundhouse kick can be powerful, but if done wrong could strain or pull something in which will leave you roundhouse less for awhile. Make sure you have good reliable Training Equipment that will keep you safe. Be Safe and Have Fun!

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Tagged as: Howto, Kicks, Roundhouse