The hook kick is another one of my favorite kicks to use in point fighting. It’s a very versatile weapon that allows you to throw it as a stand alone kick or with combinations. In my YouTube video I look at three applications for the hook kick.
- Using it as a stand alone kick. One of the great reasons to use a hook kick is that it looks so much like a side kick as you start to throw it. It’s only at the last second that you slide your knee off of the centerline to throw then throw the hooking motion. Remember, as you are practicing your hook kick that you want to chamber it in the universal chamber. From there, extend your leg in a straight line, just to the side of your target. The motion you should use is exactly like your side kick (in a piston motion not a hinging motion). From your extended position whip your foot back by bending your knee. Since we are talking about point fighting, don’t forget to point your toes when reaching for impact.
- Using it in conjunction with a round kick. Hook kick / round kick is a very good combination because the kicks follow the path of the knee. This means that once I hook my kick, I can then follow it right back up with my round kick just by extending my leg.
- Countering your opponents attack with a hook kick is another great application. Remember to either step off of the center line or slide back just outside of their reach (preferably by just stepping your front leg back to meet your rear leg) and then as their foot is coming down to meet the floor fire off your hook kick. This counter works best if you can kick to the head or your and your opponent are in an open stance allowing you to kick to the body.
These are three great ways to utilize the hook kick in sparring. I hope this helps you add another tool to your sparring game! Don’t forget to subscribe on YouTube or follow me on Instagram!