This page provides details on martial arts low kicks. Low kicks are generally used to target areas below the waist. Low kick targets include the knee, ankle, calf, foot, etc. Low kicks are frequently used in self-defense situations and full contact sparring matches (i.e. Mixed Martial Arts) because they are harder to block or grab. An opponent has a better chance to block or grab a high kick because it comes in range of their hands and arms. If an opponent can not evade a low kick, they may attempt to block a low kick with a shin block, cut kick, etc.
Many different martial arts kicks can be considered low kicks if they are aimed below the waist. However, listed below are some of the common low kicks used by martial artists. For information on other kicking techniques (i.e. spinning hook kick), please visit the main Martial Arts Kicking Techniques 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.
Examples of Martial Arts Low Kicks
- Calf Kick
- Low Front Kick – Kick to the groin, etc.
- Groin Kick
- Karate’s Kansetsu Geri – This kick is also known as the “knee joint kick”, “dislocation kick”, etc.
- Low Push Kick – Kick to knee
- Low Roundhouse kick – Kick to side of knee, calf, etc.
- Low Side Kick – Kick to knee
- Low Spinning Heel Kick – Not frequently used in real life but often seen in martial arts movies.
- Stomp Kick – Stomp on an opponent’s foot, scrape down the shin, etc.
- Sweep Kick – Kick to sweep an opponent off their feet
- Scoop/Oblique Kick – Kick to knee
- Shin Kick – A well-known Muay Thai kick
- Low Toe Kick
Low Kick Videos