Although some martial arts can be learned at home, kickboxing should be practiced in a classroom environment, according to late kickboxing coach Bill Packer. Sparring is an integral part of learning to kickbox and it requires a partner, along with a trainer to watch and keep control of the match. However, if you're not able to attend a class in your area, you can get started by practicing kickboxing's two most iconic strikes: the low wheel kick and the rising knee.
Low Wheel Kick
Step 1
Position yourself in a fighting stance, with one foot slightly in front of the other, hands up to protect your head.
Step 2
Rotate your forward foot outward, so your toes point parallel to the line of your hips.
Step 3
Snap your hips forward, so they resume normal alignment with your forward leg. As your hips snap forward, use them to swing your kicking leg.
Step 4
Strike the bag at thigh level, hitting it with the blade of your shin bone.
Step 5
Rebound off the bag and return to a standard fighting stance.
Rising Knee Strike
Step 1
Get in a fighting stance within arm's reach of the bag.
Step 2
Drape your arms over and grab hold of the top of the punching bag. With a live target, you would drape your arms over the neck and shoulders.
Step 3
Step back hard with one foot. Rebound immediately off the floor and bring the knee forward at a 45-degree angle.
Step 4
Strike the bag at groin or waist level, pushing with your hips instead of reaching with the knee.
Step 5
Return your foot to the ground immediately.
Things You'll Need
- Punching bag, 40 to 80 pounds
- Boxing gloves
- Shin protection
References
- Bill Packer; Boxing and Kickboxing Coach (deceased); Albuquerque, New Mexico
- "The Tao of Jeet Kun Do"; Bruce Lee; 1975
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