Front Leg Side Kick – Martial Arts Technique

This page provides details on the front leg side kick (or front foot side kick). Side kicks are powerful kicks but tend to be slower than other basic martial arts kicks (i.e. roundhouse kick). This slower speed is a result of side kicks not being thrown directly at the target (due to the chamber segment of the technique). For information on other martial arts kicks (i.e. spinning hook kick), please visit Black Belt Wiki’s main kicking techniques page.

To reduce this speed disadvantage, many martial artists use a front leg side kick versus a rear leg side kick in sparring tournaments. However, while a front leg side kick has more speed, it also can have less power than a rear leg side kick. To generate more power, many martial artists often use a hopping or skipping technique in order to put greater momentum behind the front leg side kick.

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.

Written Instructions for the Front Leg Side Kick

  • From the fighting position, the martial artist does not rotate their body (unlike the Rear Leg Side Kick).
  • Rather, they will bring their front leg back until the knee is up near the waist/chest and their foot is facing the attacker. This is the “chamber” portion of the side kick (as they are bringing their leg into position in order to launch the side kick).
  • The martial artist will thrust the foot forward and strike the attacker with the sole of the foot or blade of the foot (outer edge of foot).
  • Tip – Beginners can use a chair or rail in order to maintain their balance while practicing the fundamentals of a side kick.

Taekwondo Videos on Front Leg Side Kicks