How to Kick in Jujitsu

Jujitsu is a martial art that originated in the Japanese feudal system. Since it has grown and spread in the United States, it's branched into a variety of organizations, some incorporating other martial arts into their moves. Kicking in Jujitsu varies according to what belt level you're at and what organization you're in. However, the basic kicks are similar and will get you started in the right direction.

Things You'll Need

  • Workout mat
  • Workout clothes or Jujitsu uniform
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Instructions

    • 1

      Aim at the groin level, striking with the ball of your foot to do a front kick in Jujitsu. Stand in a natural stance with feet shoulder-width apart, both facing forward, with one slightly in front of the other. Bring up your back leg's knee first, to about the height of your hips, and then snap your foot against your opponent.

    • 2

      Stand in a natural stance with both feet facing forward to do a more advanced roundhouse kick. Pivot on the ball of your back foot until your heel is facing forward. Twist your body, bringing up your front knee to hip level. Snap your leg so that your foot hits your opponent's side, about at the level of the ribs. Strike with the front of your foot.

    • 3

      Lift your front knee and pivot so that your side is facing your opponent when doing a side kick, a more advanced level kick. Snap your leg forward, aiming at the knee or groin of your opponent, and strike with the bottom of your heel. Unlike a roundhouse, which comes on a curved trajectory from the side, a side kick is snapped straight into your opponent.

    • 4

      Stand facing your opponent in a natural stance when starting the most advanced kick, the crescent kick. Lift your back leg and swing it in a crescent. Start by swinging out and to the left, then up and then down and to the right. You're essentially swinging your leg in a half circle in front of your opponent.