Te front kick is one of the most lethal strikes in martial arts, although it’s rarely thrown in MMA compared to roundhouse kicks. This is because Front kick karate is so effective and hard to block, especially when timed just right. Due to the strike coming straight on, opponents are often ill-prepared.
AKA: Straight Kick or Push Kick
In martial arts, there are three basic kicks that all novice practitioners learn first, the roundhouse kick, also known as a turning kick or a power angle kick, the side kick, also called a twist kick and the front kick also referred to as a straight kick or a push kick.
For long-term practitioners of martial arts, the front kick is one of the most commonly used weapons. This is due to one’s ability to quickly throw the strike with a lot of power, even though it takes minimal wind-up to execute compared to the other two main kicks. Another plus for throwing front kicks is that it can often be difficult to block, especially when properly set up or when thrown in a succession of strikes.
If the question is how to do a front kick properly? The answer is; There are different ways. This kick can be thrown from a typical sparring stance with either the front or rear leg. Often when thrown with the front leg, it is a quick snap, whereas the back leg will generate more power and can be executed with more thrust. Both variations of the kick should begin by chambering the knee high, then pushing forward, aiming to hit your target with the ball of your foot.
The correct technique involves accelerating forward by digging your heel and toes into the mat as you move to strike your target. For better balance and more spring, slightly bend your planted leg and push forward as you prepare to hit your opponent. Turn your hips into your strike for more power and speed, especially for the rear leg front kick. When you throw a kick, It is essential to point your foot at your target, pull your toes back, and bring your kicking leg back to the ground as quickly as possible to prevent it from being grabbed.
The kick begins by bringing your knee up and pushing your foot forward. The heel and toes must spring forward from the ground in one motion, snapping the leg toward your target. Bend the leg you are standing on while kicking to give yourself better balance. Your foot should be pointed forward with your toes pulled tightly back. The striking surface is the ball of the foot.
How to throw a kick? Here are 6 TIPS FOR CORRECTLY THROWING A FRONT KICK:
While practicing front kicks, bear in mind these key aspects. As we learn what front kicks entail and how to execute them, it’s natural to make mistakes along the way.
1. Hips
Thrust your hips forward with the kick to add power and speed.
2. Hands
Hold your hands up high, keeping your guard up throughout the kick. Do not allow your arms to swing down or behind you.
3. Head
Try to keep your head tilted down, with your chin tucked in low.
4. Balance
Try not to lean too far forward or backward. Stand tall with your back straight.
5. Chamber
Chamber your leg high and strike the torso area to execute your most powerful kick. Often the more elevated the kick, the less power the kick generates.
6. Keep ’em Guessing
Mix up your kicks; throw low, high, and front and back leg kicks.