Sparring Tools - The "Cut" Kick

It's known to some as the fast side kick, to others as the cut kick. The cut kick is a great technique for sparring for a couple reasons:

1) It is quick, like a fast roundhouse, so it's great as a "set up" move
2) It is direct, aimed at the opponents midsection or face
3) For tall or long-legged competitors, it is a great way to implement a defensive strategy, because it allows you to stave off your competitor and keep them at bay.
4) Because of your hip position, it sets up a lot of techniques for your other leg, like a roundhouse, back kick, etc. Kind of like a one-two punch.

Take a look at the technique shown in the video. (NOTE: You may consider it lazy that I did not do my own video...but I prefer to think I am leveraging the assets of the community (Thank you, Austin Martial Arts Academy).)



Note, initially, the person in this video is not doing the side kick from the back leg. That's what makes it a fast side kick. The teacher goes through some good tips on performance of the technique - make sure to pay attention to the form. The "spinning" side kick they show is actually the traditional back leg side kick. Somewhat slow for sparring, but has its place.