Instruction
Welcome to the Kicking Fundamentals Course. Before we begin instruction on the front kick, a quick message on safety.
Prioritize safety in your training. Practice on appropriate surfaces and use protective gear when necessary. If you're new to kicks or martial arts, consider joining the group lessons or including private lessons in your Digital Dojang package to receive feedback from a qualified instructor. Self-directed practice increases the chances of injury.
Remember, becoming proficient in kicking takes time and dedication. Approach your training with patience and a commitment to improvement. Keep refining your technique and pushing your limits, and you'll see your kicks become more effective and powerful over time.
Ahp Cha Nut Gi - Front Kick
Step 1: Stance and Balance
First, assume a solid and balanced front stance with your feet shoulder-width apart. Distribute your weight 60% on your front foot and 40% on your rear foot. Keep your hands up to protect your face and body.
Step 2: Chambering
Begin the front kick by lifting your knee of the kicking leg towards your chest and tighten your core. This "chambering" motion is crucial for generating power and speed in the kick. Keep your kicking foot flexed, with your toes pulled back. The supporting leg stays bent.
Step 3: Extension and Alignment
Hips rock forward as you extend your leg straight out from the chambered position (do not drop your knee). Make sure your foot is flexed, ankle straight, and aim to hit your target with the ball of your foot, just below your toes.
Step 4: Target and Impact
Focus on your target and strike it with precision using the ball of your foot. Remember to strike perpendicular to the target and penetrate 3 inches to deliver maximum results.
Step 5: Retraction and Balance
After making contact, immediately rock your hip back, which will direct your leg back to the chambered position. This quick retraction helps maintain your balance and prepares you for follow-up actions if needed.
Step 6: Hip and Torso Rotation
Coordinate your kick with a slight rotation of your hips and torso. As you extend your kicking leg, allow your hips to rotate in the direction of the kick. This rotation adds momentum and power to your kick. Remember that whichever hip is positioned forward, that same hand will be up protecting your head. Hands will switch as you extend the front kick.
Step 7: Supporting Leg Pivot
As you kick, pivot your supporting foot slightly on the ball. This movement facilitates hip rotation and ensures stability throughout the technique.
Step 8: Core Engagement and Breathing
Engage your core muscles to stabilize your body during the kick. Breathe out from your abdomen forcefully as you execute the kick, which aids in exerting power and maintaining control.
Step 9: Practice and Progression
Like any skill, practice is key. Start by practicing slowly and focusing on your form. As you become more comfortable, gradually increase your speed and power. Repetition will refine your technique. Watch the first video below and follow along on how to perform the front kick. Use the video regularly and try and mimic the motion. The second video will provide some training tips and drills that will help you improve your performance as you get started. The content of both videos should be performed on a regular basis to create the desired results.
Summary of Drills:
- Ankle and Toe Flexes (on the ground or in the air)
- Slow Front Kicks from a seated position, focus on the ankle and toe flexing
- Slow Front Kicks from a seated position, placing the hand on the toes and the elbow on the knee
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