How to Do the Step Kick in Kung Fu

The kung fu step kick will move you toward your opponent to execute a kick while maintaining balance and manueverablity.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Comfortable clothes
• Balance
• Focus
• Aim
• Strength

The Basic Side Step Kick

1. Begin in ready stance. Start with your heels together, feet pointed slightly outward. Be sure to have your feet firmly planted on the ground. Your back should be straight and your knees slightly bent to encourage proper blood flow. Your arms are to be bent at the elbow, with your fists forward and up.

2. Turn your head to the right (but do not turn your body) and take a step with your right foot toward your right. Your foot should not face forward, but stay in the same direction.

3. Now place your left foor behind your right and plant it firmly on the ground.

4. Using your left foot for balance, bring up your right leg, withthe knee bent to the height of the intended kick.

5. Extend your leg with force in the direction of the intended kick. You should aim one inch past where the kick will land to provide a more focused force. Your strike should conclude when your heel lands firmly on the target.

6. Draw back your right leg and bring it down until it is planted firmly on the ground.

7. You can end the kick there, or if you wish to drill, repeat steps 3 to 6 until you run out of room. You can also reverse the kick to practice with your left leg, by using the right leg as the balancing leg and the left as the kicking leg.

Tips & Warnings

• The most effective kicks will land on vulnerable areas like the knees, groin or stomach. Avoid striking the head, as you may either overextend or throw off your balance.
• For maximum effectiveness, remember to breathe properly when executing any martial arts move.
• This move requires balance. If you have trouble with the step kick, balance exercises are ideal to accompany this drill. Practice standing on one leg, remember to breathe and look straight ahead, keeping your eyes focused on one spot. This will help you build balance.
• Make sure you stretch and warm up before any exercise.
• Drink plenty of water before and after any exercise.
• As always, it is best to learn martial arts from a recognized coach. Always check with your doctor before starting any exercise regimen, including kung fu.
• Be careful when practicing a side step kick to the knees with a sparring partner, as it only takes 5 lbs. of pressure to break the knee.

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