What is a Front Kick in MMA?
What is a Front Kick in MMA?
The front kick in martial arts is a kick executed by lifting the knee straight forward, while keeping the foot and shin either hanging freely or pulled to the hip, and then straightening the leg in front of the practitioner and striking the target area. It is desirable to retract the leg immediately after delivering the kick, to avoid the opponent trying to grapple the leg and (unless a combination is in process) to return to stable fighting stance.
A front kick can be delivered forward in a penetrating way (hip thrust), or upwards to attack the head.
In martial arts implying either barefooted combat or very light footwear, the strike is usually delivered by using ball of the foot (while pointing the foot toward the target area and keeping toes up to prevent injury) or by heel. When heavier footwear is used, there is an option using whole sole as a striking surface. It is also possible to kick with the top of your foot (the instep) in cases of striking at the groin or under the arm which can be very damaging.
The front kick is typically performed with the straight and balanced upper body, but it allows for variety in motion of hips and body overall. Martial arts systems exploit this ability in different fashions. Hips movement may be used to increase the reach and to thrust one’s leg into the target, resulting in more powerful strike .
Physical Therapy Guide and Exercises for Leg Strengthening and flexibility:
- Ask Your Physician or Physical Therapist about your current exercise regiment
- Understand your existing flexibility
- Be sure to warm up before any exercise or training
- Straight Leg Raises
- Hamstring Curls
- Prone Straight Leg Raises
- Wall Squats
- Calf Raises
- Step-Ups
- Side Leg Raises
- Leg Presses