This page provides details on how to do a Kakato Otoshi Geri or Karate axe kick. This kick is sometimes only called Kakato Geri. Kakato Otoshi Geri is the Japanese term for “dropping heel kick”.
An axe kick is often used against targets such as the head or shoulder bone of an attacker. However, this kick should be selectively utilized as you are exposing your groin to a counter attack.
For additional Karate kicking techniques, visit our main Karate kicks page. To see how axe kicks are taught by other martial arts styles, please visit our main Martial Arts Kicks section.
Karate Demonstration Video on Kakato Otoshi Geri (Axe Kick)
Taekwondo Instructional Video for Axe Kicks