How to Do the Kung Fu Front Kick

Known by a variety of names in different styles, the kung fu front kick is a snapping kick thrown by the rear leg. Similar kicks can be found in almost every martial art in the world. Although it is not the strongest kick, it is relatively quick and can be used to keep an opponent at a distance or thwart an incoming attack. Here's how to do it.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Begin in the mountain-climbing stance. A similar stance with one leg in the lead and the other in the rear with a fairly even weight distribution could be substituted if desired.

2. Raise the rear knee until the thigh is approximately parallel to the ground. The knee may be slightly higher if aiming for a high target, but the knee should always be raised enough to at least bring the thigh parallel to the ground.

3. Snap the foot out from the knee. Never start the foot's kicking motion until the knee is in the proper position.

4. Hit the target with the ball of the foot, not the heel. The toes should be pulled back to avoid catching them on the opponent and tangling or trapping the foot.

5. Withdraw the foot while keeping the knee in its raised position. If necessary, a second kick can be thrown from this position without the kicking foot touching the ground.

6. Drop the knee only after the foot has been completely withdrawn. The foot may return to its original position, or it may step forward into a mountain-climbing stance that has reversed the roles of the legs (the kicking leg was the rear but now becomes the lead). This is often necessary if the fighter wishes to claim territory or the opponent is withdrawing.

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