How to Do a Tang Soo Do Axe Kick

Tang soo do is a Korean martial art which focuses on self-defense rather than attack techniques. One of the most widely practiced martial arts in the United States, tang soo do is taught as a fitness method, a compititve sport and for self-defense. The axe kick is a basic beginner move that all students should learn when studying tang soo do.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Begin in the basic four-point stance by standing with your feet about shoulder width apart and your dominant leg behind you. Place your hands up in defense position with your hands up near your shoulders. Most martial arts techniques will have you place your hands in fists; however, in tang so do, you should place your hands so that your palms are facing and your fingertips are together, as if your were going to make a chopping motion with the sides of your palms.

2. Bring your back leg forward while bending at the knee. Bring your knee up near your chest and point your toe slightly towards the floor. Swing your leg out straight as high as possible, as you would for a standard front kick. Remember to keep your hands up at all times, not just for defense but also for balance.

3. Pull your leg down sharp making a chopping motion to complete the axe kick. Your foot should land flat on the ground slightly in front of you. Once you have completed the kick, take a step back and return to your four-point stance.

4. Practice the tang soo do axe kick slowly at first in order to perfect every step. Only once each portion has been mastered should you begin working on speeding up the kick.

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