How to Do a Side Kick in Karate

The simplicity of karate relative to other martial art styles makes it one of the most effective self-defense/fighting styles. Mastering the basic fundamentals of the side kick will allow you to administer one of the most powerful and functional kicking techniques.

Instructions

    • 1

      Begin in a staggered fighting stance with the dominant leg in front and hands up in a defensive position.

    • 2

      Bring the rear foot toward the heel of the lead foot, making a short step that aligns the heels. Or, step "through" with rear foot, bringing the rear foot behind the lead heel. The rear heel should be facing toward the target with the hips closed.

    • 3

      Raise the lead knee to the chest or in line with the belt.

    • 4

      Extend your lead leg outwards, keeping your arms in a defensive position close to the body. Some techniques insist on straightening the lead arm along the length of the kicking leg, which does provide a way to create a full extension and focus your attack.

    • 5

      Use the heel or "knife edge" of the foot to make contact with the target.

    • 6

      Retract the kicking leg in a controlled motion and either maintain your balance with your knee at chest/belt level to attack again, or lightly place the lead foot down, returning to a balanced fighting stance with your guard up.