In Asia martial art has one of the longest documented histories. There are many different
styles, like kung fu, aikido, judo, jujutsu and many more. The one thing in common are
techniques to use your hands for punches and your feet for kicks. The side kick is a very
effective technique to defend yourself. It ismentioned in nearly every martial art but under
different names. The side kick is one of the first movements you learn when practicing
martial arts. There are many modifications to it but this text will just describe the general
movement.
Table of Contents
1. General information
2. Description of the side kick
3. How to learn the side kick considering the dynamical system theory
3.1 The knee booster
3.2 Breaking the stick
4. Warnings
Objectives and Topics
This paper aims to provide a comprehensive guide for beginners on executing the side kick in martial arts, focusing on the mechanics of the movement and training methods derived from dynamical systems theory to improve motor learning and performance.
- Historical context and general principles of martial arts techniques.
- Step-by-step biomechanical breakdown of the side kick execution.
- Application of dynamical system theory to facilitate effective motor learning.
- Practical training exercises including "The knee booster" and "Breaking the stick".
- Safety guidelines and essential precautions for physical training.
Excerpt from the book
Description of the side kick
The side kick is a very dangerous und effective method to crucify your opponent. It is a complex movement. You have to be well balanced during the kick, concentrate as well on breathing as on the movement. You have to be fast to be able to put much power into the kick and that your opposer do not realise your plan.
You will find a step by step description for beginners which do not include the breathing below.
Step1 Face forward and spread your feet about shoulder-width plus half apart, one behind the other. Point your feet straight ahead and grip the floor with your toes.
Step2 Bend your knees and ankles forward and keep your back straight as you press your knees outward, as if riding on a horseback.
Step3 Keep your feet facing forward as you lean your upper body to the side, looking in the direction where you are going to kick.
Step4 Raise your fists to protect your midsection. (see Picture1)
Step5 The front foot is the supporting leg and turns 45 degrees away from the direction of the kick.
Step6 Pull up the knee of the back leg toward the chest as close as possible. Keep the instep close to the leg as you pull up. Keep the toes of the kicking foot pulled back with the heel forward when striking the surface.
Step7 Rotate the upper body and hips away from the direction of the kick while thrusting the kicking leg out directly to the side at the target. (see Picture2)
Step8 Retract your kicking leg immediately following the strike.
Step9 Return to your original position to defend or strike again. (see Picture3)
Summary of Chapters
General information: Provides an overview of the history of martial arts and introduces the side kick as a fundamental technique.
Description of the side kick: Offers a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to perform the mechanical sequence of a side kick.
How to learn the side kick considering the dynamical system theory: Explains training approaches using specific exercises to solve movement problems and improve technique.
The knee booster: Details a specific training exercise involving a ball and a rolled-up mat to practice balance and kick height.
Breaking the stick: Describes a progression exercise using paper or sticks to refine target accuracy and rotation.
Warnings: Outlines necessary safety precautions such as warming up and avoiding injury-related strain.
Keywords
Martial Arts, Side Kick, Motor Learning, Dynamical System Theory, Biomechanics, Sports Science, Physical Training, Self-Defense, Movement Coordination, Flexibility, Balance, Kick Technique, Skill Acquisition, Fitness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this paper?
The paper focuses on the biomechanical description and the practical motor learning process of the martial arts side kick for beginners.
Which theoretical framework is applied to the training?
The author applies the dynamical system theory to suggest how to approach and learn complex movements effectively.
What is the main goal of the described training?
The goal is to enable the learner to master the side kick through structured, natural movements and specialized progression exercises.
Which scientific method is used?
The paper utilizes a practical, observational method combined with pedagogical instructions based on motor learning principles.
What does the main body of the text cover?
It covers the physical mechanics of the kick, practical step-by-step training drills, and safety protocols for practitioners.
Which keywords characterize this work?
Key terms include Martial Arts, Side Kick, Motor Learning, Dynamical System Theory, and Biomechanics.
How is "The knee booster" exercise intended to help the learner?
It helps the learner practice correct positioning and balance by using a rolled-up mat and a target (the ball) at breast height.
Why is "Breaking the stick" considered a progression exercise?
It allows the learner to refine the rotation of the hips and the accuracy of the kick by targeting a specific object, gradually moving from paper to wooden sticks as skill increases.
- Quote paper
- BSc. Stefan Leitner (Author), 2008, Martial art - side kick, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.hausarbeiten.de/document/181654
