Front Kick

Variations. Front kick may be performed with the leading or trailing foot. Since there is little hip twist and less acceleration distance, the leading leg kick is faster but less powerful than the trailing leg version. However, it is useful for checking an onrushing opponent since the opponent supplies much of the impact force. With the lead leg kick, be prepared to project weight forward, otherwise recoil may drive you backwards. Jumps may be added to front kick.

I once had a Korean instructor who would fire a front kick toward your face, let his foot drop down to your chest, use his toes to grab the front of your uniform, and then pull you in range for a series of hand attacks. He could use his toes as easily as you used your fingers.

Front Thrust Kick

Same as front kick except instead of the foot snapping into the target, the foot is thrust through the target. Instead of the leg snapping from the hip, the hip is thrust forward to push the foot into and through the target. The front thrust kick is not as powerful as the front kick, since it applies its force over a longer period, but it is effective when used attack the target while also pushing the opponent away to give you more room to use other more powerful techniques.