Spinning Hook Kick – Martial Arts Technique

This page provides details on the martial arts spinning hook kick. This martial arts kick is also known as a spinning whip kick, reverse hook kick, spinning heel kick, etc. This spinning hook kick is very powerful because it combines the momentum of a spin with the additional “snap” (thrust) of a hook kick in order to strike a target. For instructions focused on different martial arts kicks (i.e. axe kick), please visit Black Belt Wiki’s main Martial Arts Kicks section.

Martial arts kicks and all other martial arts techniques should only be practiced under the supervision of a trained martial arts instructor in order to prevent injuries and to ensure the proper technique is utilized. In addition, all martial arts techniques and training should be used safely and responsibly.

Advanced Variations

Written Instructions 

  • Start in the kicking stance. The martial artists uses their rear leg in this kick. To master this kick, they should already know how to perform a basic hook kick.
  • If the martial artists is in a right kicking stance, they will turn their body to the right until they are facing directly away from the target. During this movement, they should pivot on their left foot.
  • Continue turning to the right and look over their right shoulder at the target – they need to see what they are hitting.
  • Easy method – Sweep the leg back in a big arc (the knee will be raised up & out as they kick). Easier to gain momentum but also easier for opponent to see & counter.
  • More difficult method – Thrust the kick backwards like a back kick. Harder to gain the circular momentum but it is a faster and more deceptive kick.
  • Snap the kick as the foot approaches the side of the target (i.e. head). This is the hook part of the kick.
  • Hit the target with the back of the heel (lots of bone – so this is a very powerful hick) or with the sole of the foot. Do not hit with the side of the foot.
  • Sweep through the target and bring the right leg back to the original starting position after the martial artist has completed the kick. The martial artist should be ready to follow up with another attack or to counter their opponent’s attack.

Video for a Spinning Hook Kick

Video for a Reverse Hook Kick

Video for a Spinning Heel Kick