How to Do a Stepping Side Kick in Kickboxing

The stepping side kick may look fancy, but it's a fairly easy maneuver to execute. The back foot steps to the side and behind the front foot and then you strike with the heel of the front foot into the opponent's head or body. The kick's power comes from pivoting on the ball of the grounded foot just before extending the attacking foot.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Stand with feet shoulder width apart, knees slightly bent and one foot slightly behind the other. Turn the body very slightly to the side in the direction of the back foot.

2. Move the back foot sideways behind the front foot so your legs cross slightly.

3. Lean into the back foot by shifting the weight of the body back and lifting the front foot off the floor.

4. Bend and lift the front knee into "chamber," which is the mid-section or lower torso area of the body.

5. Pivot on the ball of the grounded foot, rotating the heel of that foot forward. This is where the power of the kick comes from.

6. Extend the raised knee by pushing up and out with the heel of the foot.

7. Retract the kick by bringing the knee of the front leg back into chamber, placing the front foot back on the floor, stepping back with the back foot and returning to fighting stance.

Who Can Help Sponsored

• Tired of Being Tired? Fight Fatigue and Try FRS for FREE!