Twist Kick

The twist kick is a very effective kick, but it requires the front of the leg to kick in an outward direction, which requires an unusual degree of flexibility.

Foot position. The foot is angled inward, toes curled backward.

Striking Surface. Strike with ball of foot.

Leg Position. Chamber leg some, fully extend leg, twist into the kick, and re-chamber.

Usage. Used from a closed fighting position (chests facing opposite directions), use rear leg twist kick to the abdomen.

Movement. To begin the kick, bring the kicking knee diagonally up and across in front of the body. Rotate hip outward and thrust your foot outward so it travels in an upward-outward path. The twist kick puts the body into an unnatural, contorted position, but, when kick is perfected, it will be very useful. When fighters are in an open fighting position (both chests facing same direction), the lead leg twist kick is highly useful in kicking an exposed abdomen.

Motion. The twist kick is similar to a front kick except that the foot kicks in an outward motion.

Variations. Twist kick may be performed with the leading or trailing foot and jumps may be added.