The Difference Between a Side Kick and a Round Kick in Martial Arts
Introduction
One of the things we often see, especially from beginners, is a kick that is neither a side kick nor a round kick but a hybrid between the two, this leads us to our blog for the week. Martial arts are rich with diverse techniques, each with its unique purpose and execution. Among the most fundamental and widely used kicks are the side kick and the round kick. Understanding the differences between these two can enhance your martial arts practice, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced practitioner.
The Side Kick
The side kick is a powerful, linear technique that involves turning your body side on to your opponent and extending the leg to the side of the body to strike an opponent with the heel or the outer edge (Blade) of the foot. Here are some key characteristics:
Execution: The side kick starts with the practitioner turning through 90 degrees and lifting their knee towards their chest, then extending the leg outward in a straight line. The hips rotate slightly, but the motion remains primarily linear.
Target Areas: Common targets include the midsection, ribs, and knees of the opponent. It can also be aimed at the throat or head in more advanced applications.
Advantages: This kick is known for its precision and power. It can effectively keep an opponent at a distance and is often used defensively to counter an advancing attacker.
Martial Arts Styles: The side kick is prevalent in styles such as Karate, Kickboxing, Kick-jutsu & Taekwondo.
The Round Kick
The round kick, also known as the roundhouse kick, is a dynamic, circular technique that generates significant power through rotational movement. Here are its main features:
Execution: The round kick involves rotating the hips to approximately 45 degrees from your opponent and pivoting on the supporting foot while the kicking leg chambers and then swings in a circular motion. The strike is delivered with the top of the foot or the shin.
Target Areas: This kick can be aimed at various heights, including the legs, torso, and head. Its versatility makes it a staple in many striking arts.
Advantages: The round kick’s circular motion allows for greater momentum and power. It is effective for both offensive and defensive manoeuvres, and because of its speed, it can often catch adversaries off guard.
Martial Arts Styles: The round kick is a fundamental technique in, Karate, Kickboxing, Kick-jutsu, Muay Thai & Taekwondo.
A comparison of both kicks
Movement: The side kick is linear, moving in a straight line & focusing on direct, in-line power, with the bottom of the heel or edge of the foot striking its target. Whereas the round kick moves in a circular motion, coming around the side and emphasises rotational force with either the shin or top of the foot striking the target area
Application: Sidekicks are often used to maintain distance and control space, whereas round kicks are versatile for both close and long-range attacks.
Conclusion
Both the side kick and the round kick are essential techniques in martial arts, each with its unique strengths and applications. Mastering these kicks requires practice, precision, and an understanding of their distinct mechanics. Whether you’re defending yourself or competing, knowing when and how to use these kicks can significantly enhance your martial arts skill set.
What is your favourite kick?, let us know in the comments
Comments