Complete Kicking (22 page)

how to

1. From fighting stance, shift your weight to the neutral position.

2. Turn your head and spot the target over your shoulder as you rotate your body so your back is to the target. Chamber your knee with your kicking foot next to the standing knee.

3. Shoot your foot out while watching the target over your shoulder and protecting your vital targets with your arms. After kicking, return to the original position or step down into fighting stance.

Keep your head upright for optimal balance. Spot the target over your shoulder while maintaining your equilibrium. Utilize your arms to center your body and to protect your torso while turning. Keep your foot under your hip along the centerline to protect your groin against a counterattack.

variations

Variations of the back kick are most useful when applied in the least expected manner. Back kick from the ground, for instance, is an effective technique to surprise or confuse an opponent who expects you to stand and fight. As soon as you are done kicking, use your opponent’s momentary distraction to get up and protect yourself from standing position.

From the kneeling position, put your hands on the floor so that you have a firm triangular base of one knee and two hands to support a back kick to the lower stomach of an advancing opponent. Do not turn your body; keep it sideways so that your groin and face are covered.

Keep your kicking foot tilted so your toes are lower than your heel.

Keep your head up and your eyes on the target. Bend your kicking knee slightly to facilitate balance and the ability to move quickly after kicking.

BODY ALIGNMENT

To hit a moving opponent, you need to spin and kick quickly. For accuracy in such a fast and complex movement, your sight line, foot, and target should be aligned on one plane. To perfect your kick, slow supported-kicking drills (right) can help you develop muscle memory. The more familiar your body is with the sequence of the kick’s movements, the more precise your kick will be.

Three point stabilization (1 foot and 2 hands) enhances posture and accuracy while developing muscle memory.

applications

Back kick is a versatile kick that is primarily used to stop an incoming opponent or counterattack against a circular kick (roundhouse kick) or a vertical kick (axe kick). You can use it at short or medium distance, but avoid using it from long range. Retract your foot immediately and stay away from or move in close to your opponent after kicking.

SELF-DEFENSE APPLICATION: Left: When an assailant grabs you from the rear, take one step forward and kick while leaning forward to gain space.

SPORT APPLICATION: Below: As the opponent lands after jumping roundhouse kick, counter with a short back kick.

SPORT APPLICATION: As soon as the opponent completes his left turn kick and drops his body forward, counter with a right back kick.