Improving your kicks in kickboxing requires a combination of proper technique, conditioning and consistent practice. Here are some tips to help you get better kicks.
Mastering the Basics
In order to make your kicks stronger, you first need to start with the fundamental kicks like the roundhouse kick, front kicks, side kick and back kick. These are the main kicks that you would like to learn in the beginning of your kickboxing journey.
The other important thing while performing better kicks is to improve your balance. It is essential to work on your balance and footwork to ensure a solid foundation.
Proper technique
For each kick, you need to focus on the correct form and technique. We don’t want to end up hurting ourselves, right?
Try to pay attention to the angle of your hips, the pivot of your supporting foot, and the extension of your kicking leg.
The main problem why you haven’t improved your kicks might be the lack of concentration of hip movements.
Everything starts with the rotation of the hips and ability to control the movement. Also, while doing your kicks, keep your hands up to protect your face while kicking.
Flexibility and Mobility
The past 14 years that I have been in this kickboxing world, I have never skipped my stretching minutes before I start my training. This is the reason I always encourage my clients to always warm up their muscles and to do their stretching routine before performing the kicks.
While regularly stretching and working on your flexibility, you will improve your range of motion. This can be done by incorporating dynamic stretching and static stretches.
Maintaining good hip mobility is crucial for generating power in your kicks.
Strength and Conditioning
Basic exercises like squats, lunges and deadlifts are beneficial to strengthen your legs and to develop power in your kicks.
Incorporate plyometric exercises like box jumps and jump squats to improve explosive leg strength.
So next time when you’re in the gym wondering what exercises to do, go crab that box in the corner and have some fun with it!
Core Strength
As mentioned earlier, balance is the key. So a strong core is essential for stability and balance during kicks.
You can include exercises like hanging leg raises, side plank knee-ups, toe taps and Russian twists in your routine.
Practice Drills
Work on specific kick drills to enhance your technique and accuracy. For example, practice hitting imaginary target, while holding onto a wall or a chair.
Try to do some static kicks, leg holds and dynamic stretches, while keeping your core strong and proper balance and working on your hip muscles.