There are many kicks used in a fight. Some more useful than others. In this article, Kung Fu Kicks, we will show some of the kicks used at Sifu Och Wing Chun. We will review the Inside and Outside Shadow Kicks, Tong Kick, Half Crescent, and Side Kick.
Kung Fu Kicks: Unlocking the Secrets of Dynamic Power
Before going into the the specific kicks let us touch on Wing Chun as a system to set the groundwork. In short, Wing Chun’s goal is to end the fight as quickly as possible. Every strike intent on crushing the opponent. Understanding that goal the kicks that we choose to utilize fall into the place.
Inside Shadow Kick
One of the most useful kicks to use is the Inside Shadow Kick. Kicking the opponent in the knee is one of the quickest ways to end the fight. With this Shadow Kick, considerable force can be driven through a target at a downward angle. The setup (implied in the name) is that the kick is done in the shadow of your hands. As a result, an opponent will find it difficult to avoid or stop this type of kick. The reason is because it is usually done in unison with the hands. Not only can it be used to attack it can be used in defense as well. It can be used to stop low kicks to the leg.
Outside Shadow Kick
Equally important, not all enemies or targets will be directly in front of you. The Outside Shadow Kick allows you to hit targets off center. They can also be used to block kicks depending on the angle. Furthermore, one advantage of this kick in particular is it can be used to drive out the support leg of an opponents kick. Jum Saos together with a low shadow kick can block roundhouses and blast the supporting leg.
Tong Kick
The Tong kick is similar to a front kick. Uniquely, however, it thrusts in upward diagonal angle. Can be used for multiple targets, but it’s primary hit is the Xiphoid. Combined with a Double Jum Sao, this is a great choice to counter a roundhouse. In addition, it can be used used to strike the ribs or inside of the thigh.
Half Crescent Kick
The Half Crescent Kick similarly takes the same shape as the Inside Shadow Kick. The difference is it drives forward as opposed to down. This kick is usually delivered to the ribs when a punch is thrown. Countering a Jab or Cross style punch with a Crescent Kick is a great option. It is unexpected which it was lends to it’s usefulness.
Side Kick
Overall, the Side Kick is one of Wing Chun’s longest ranged weapons. One of it’s main uses is delivering a powerful strike to the side when turning to face the opponent may not be available. Whether it’s a question of speed or restriction doesn’t matter. The side kick allows an immediate response to someone coming from the side. It can be done two different ways:
Static, fired directly from your stance:
or with a skip. The skip allows for a the distance and power to be increased by swinging the back foot foot. The base is re-established closer to the target and momentum is gained which increases the power.
(To view a video of the skipping side kick click the following link: Skipping Side Kick Video. )
The key to your Kicks
One thing all of these kicks have in common is what part of the foot is going to be used to strike the body. If you read our article “Fighting Footwork” you will see how the body needs to be aligned through the heel for structure. With the correct structure your power drives from your legs through your heels for maximum damage. This is similar to a person doing a heavy squat. Moreover, to support the weight the heel must be used. Piggybacking off of that concept is another, focused energy. If you take the energy you would use to slap someone and applied it to a needle, you will easily penetrate the skin. Just the same with your kick, if you drive all your power through your heel your damage is focused through that one point as opposed to spread through whole foot.
The Art of Kung Fu Kicks
Kung Fu kicks represent a balance of strength, precision, and practicality, making them invaluable tools in martial arts training. Unlike kicks from other disciplines, Kung Fu emphasizes efficiency and adaptability, ensuring that every move is both powerful and purposeful. At Sifu Och Wing Chun Kung Fu Academy, our training focuses on these principles, helping students develop kicks that are not just showy but effective in real-world scenarios.
Whether you’re new to martial arts or looking to refine your technique, mastering Kung Fu kicks can elevate your skill set and give you a unique edge in both self-defense and combat situations.
Key Characteristics of Kung Fu Kicks
Kung Fu kicks are distinct in their approach and execution. Here’s what sets them apart:
- Direct and Efficient Movement
Wing Chun Kung Fu, in particular, values kicks that conserve energy while delivering maximum impact. This directness ensures minimal exposure to counterattacks. - Low and Practical Targets
Kung Fu kicks often aim for low targets such as knees, shins, or groin areas. These targets maximize effectiveness while reducing the risk of imbalance. - Body Alignment and Balance
Proper alignment and balance are critical. Each kick integrates seamlessly into the practitioner’s stance, maintaining stability even during rapid movements. - Adaptability Across Ranges
Kung Fu kicks are versatile, working effectively in both close and mid-range combat. They complement strikes, blocks, and grappling techniques, making them a well-rounded component of any fighter’s arsenal.
Types of Kung Fu Kicks
Several kicking techniques are integral to Kung Fu, each serving unique purposes:
- High Front Slanted Kick (Tong Kick)
A straightforward upward kick aimed at an opponent’s chin or midsection. It’s excellent for closing distance or disrupting an attacker’s stance. - Side Kick (Yeung Geuk)
Known for its power, the side kick can target an opponent’s ribs or legs with force, pushing them off balance. - Sweep Kick
A low, circular kick designed to trip or destabilize an opponent. It’s an excellent tool for setting up follow-up attacks. - Roundhouse Kick (Waai Chek Geuk)
Delivered with a rotation of the hips, this kick generates significant momentum and power, making it a formidable strike.
Training Kung Fu Kicks the Right Way
Mastering Kung Fu kicks requires disciplined training and attention to detail. Here’s how Sifu Och Wing Chun ensures students achieve excellence:
- Proper Technique Development
Our instructors focus on teaching correct foot positioning, body alignment, and follow-through to maximize power and precision. - Strength and Flexibility Training
Kicking effectively demands a combination of strength and flexibility. Our classes incorporate targeted exercises to build these attributes. - Realistic Application
Students practice kicks in simulated combat scenarios, ensuring they understand how to execute them under pressure. - Safety First
While learning powerful techniques, we emphasize safety and control to prevent injuries during practice.
The Role of Kung Fu Kicks in Self-Defense
Kung Fu kicks are not just tools for demonstration—they’re practical in real-world self-defense situations. Low and direct kicks are ideal for disarming opponents without overcommitting. When executed properly, a single well-placed kick can neutralize a threat, giving you the opportunity to escape or counterattack.
At Sifu Och Wing Chun, we teach our students how to integrate kicks seamlessly into their defensive strategies, making them prepared for any situation.
Sifu Och Wing Chun: Your Path to Mastery
When it comes to learning effective Kung Fu kicks, Sifu Och Wing Chun Kung Fu Academy in Lakeland, Florida, stands out as the best choice. Here’s why:
- Certified Wing Chun Expertise
Our lineage is rooted in authentic Wing Chun, ensuring students learn time-tested techniques from credible instructors. - Comprehensive Training
From foundational skills to advanced applications, our training programs cover every aspect of Kung Fu kicking techniques. - Real-World Application
We prioritize practicality, teaching students how to use kicks effectively in both controlled and unpredictable situations.
With Sifu Och Wing Chun, you’ll gain not only the physical skills but also the confidence to defend yourself and others.
Start Your Journey Today
Master the art of Kung Fu kicks with Sifu Och Wing Chun Kung Fu Academy. Take the first step toward achieving power, precision, and practicality in your martial arts training. Fill out our contact form to schedule your first class today!
How to Perfect Your Kung Fu Kicks for Combat
Related Articles
- “Building Striking Power in Martial Arts”
https://sifuochwingchun.com/building-striking-power/ - “Martial Arts Techniques and Training: Wing Chun Kung Fu”
https://sifuochwingchun.com/martial-arts-techniques-and-training-wing-chun-kung-fu/ - “Proper Energy and Pressure in Wing Chun”
https://sifuochwingchun.com/proper-energy-and-pressure-in-wing-chun/
In conclusion, focus your power and train your structure and you will be able to develop kicks that will drop any opponent you face.
