Taekwondo, the Korean martial art of “kicking and punching,” is renowned globally for its spectacular and powerful kicking techniques. For any aspiring practitioner, mastering these kicks is the very foundation of their journey. A black belt’s journey begins with the simplest of strikes, and a solid understanding of basic kicks is what separates a student from a true martial artist.
These kicks are not just for breaking boards or scoring points; they are the building blocks of a complete and effective fighting style, embodying the core tenets of power, speed, and precision. This definitive list of the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks is the essential guide for anyone starting their martial arts journey, providing a clear roadmap to the fundamental techniques that are the cornerstone of this dynamic sport.
The beauty of Taekwondo lies in its emphasis on leg power, and each kick serves a unique purpose in both self-defense and competitive sparring. From the straightforward jab of a front kick to the explosive power of a roundhouse, every technique teaches a different aspect of balance, timing, and control. This article is dedicated to breaking down the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks, giving you the knowledge you need to start your training with confidence.
We will cover the mechanics, common applications, and the subtle nuances that turn a simple movement into a devastating strike. This comprehensive look at the world of Taekwondo kicks is why this is the ultimate guide to the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks you must learn.
Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks Every Beginner Should Know :
10. Ap Chagi (Front Snap Kick)
The Ap Chagi, or Front Snap Kick, is the most fundamental kick in Taekwondo and is often the first one a student learns. It is a linear kick that is used to push or snap into an opponent’s body. The key to mastering this kick is to use a rapid extension and retraction of the leg, generating power from the snap of the knee. The simple, direct nature of this kick is what makes it a crucial part of the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks.
This kick is a versatile tool in both forms (poomsae) and sparring. In sparring, it can be used to keep an opponent at a distance or to disrupt their balance. In self-defense, it can be used to strike at an opponent’s groin or solar plexus. The simplicity of its motion allows it to be executed quickly, making it an excellent surprise attack. Every Taekwondo journey begins with this kick, solidifying its place among the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks. The foundational nature of this kick is what makes it one of the most important of the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks.
| Stat | The Front Snap Kick is the most common kick used in the basic forms (Taegeuk Il Jang and Ee Jang) for beginner students. |
9. Dollyo Chagi (Roundhouse Kick)
The Dollyo Chagi, or Roundhouse Kick, is arguably the most iconic kick in Taekwondo. It is a circular kick that is used to strike an opponent’s head or torso. The key to mastering this kick is to pivot the supporting foot 180 degrees, allowing for a full rotation of the hips and a powerful strike. The explosive power and versatility of this kick are what make it a crucial part of the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks.
The Roundhouse Kick is a staple in both forms and sparring. In sparring, it is a primary weapon for scoring points, as it can be used to strike an opponent’s head or chest with incredible force. In forms, it is a key component of many patterns, and it is a test of a practitioner’s balance and power. The ability to perform a powerful and accurate Roundhouse Kick is a hallmark of a skilled Taekwondo practitioner. This is why it is an essential part of the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks. The sheer power of this kick makes it one of the most important of the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks.
| Stat | The Roundhouse Kick is the highest-scoring kick in competitive Taekwondo sparring, often earning 3 or 5 points depending on the target area and technique. |
8. Yeop Chagi (Side Kick)
The Yeop Chagi, or Side Kick, is a powerful linear kick that is used to strike an opponent’s body with the heel of the foot. It is a kick that is known for its incredible pushing power, and it can be used to knock an opponent off balance or to break through their guard. The key to mastering this kick is to properly chamber the leg and to extend it with a powerful thrust. The sheer power of this kick is what makes it a crucial part of the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks.
The Side Kick is a versatile tool in both forms and sparring. In sparring, it can be used to keep an opponent at a distance or to stop their momentum. In self-defense, it can be used to strike at an opponent’s knee, torso, or head. The ability to generate a powerful Side Kick is a testament to a practitioner’s balance and leg strength. Every serious student must master this kick, which is why it’s a key entry among the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks. Its ability to create distance is what makes it one of the most tactical of the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks.
| Stat | A well-executed Side Kick can generate over 1,200 pounds of force, making it one of the most powerful kicks in martial arts. |
7. Dwit Chagi (Back Kick)
The Dwit Chagi, or Back Kick, is a kick that is used to strike an opponent with the heel of the foot. It is a kick that is known for its incredible surprise factor, as it is often executed without the opponent seeing it coming. The key to mastering this kick is to properly look over your shoulder and to extend your leg with a powerful thrust. The surprise element of this kick is what makes it a crucial part of the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks.
The Back Kick is a powerful kick that can be used to strike an opponent’s body or head. In sparring, it can be used as a counter-attack or as a way to surprise an opponent who is too close. In forms, it is a key component of many patterns, and it is a test of a practitioner’s balance and coordination. The ability to perform a powerful and accurate Back Kick is a hallmark of a skilled Taekwondo practitioner. This is why it is an essential part of the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks. The surprise factor of this kick makes it one of the most difficult of the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks.
| Stat | The Back Kick is considered one of the most difficult kicks to master due to the need for a full rotation and balance. |
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6. Pyejeok Chagi (Target Kick)
The Pyejeok Chagi, or Target Kick, is a kick that is used to practice striking a target with accuracy and precision. It is a kick that is often taught to beginners as a way to improve their focus and their balance. The key to mastering this kick is to properly aim at a target and to strike it with a powerful and accurate kick. The focus on accuracy and precision is what makes it a crucial part of the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks.
The Target Kick is a versatile tool in both forms and sparring. In sparring, it can be used to strike at an opponent’s weak points. In forms, it is a key component of many patterns, and it is a test of a practitioner’s accuracy and focus. The ability to perform a powerful and accurate Target Kick is a testament to a practitioner’s dedication and their skill. Every serious student must master this kick, which is why it’s a key entry among the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks. The emphasis on accuracy makes it one of the most unique of the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks.
| Stat | The Target Kick is often used in breaking demonstrations, where a practitioner must hit a small target with a powerful and accurate kick. |
5. Naeryeo Chagi (Ax Kick)
The Naeryeo Chagi, or Ax Kick, is a powerful kick that is used to strike an opponent with the heel of the foot. It is a kick that is known for its incredible downward force, and it can be used to strike an opponent’s head or collarbone. The key to mastering this kick is to properly lift the leg high and straight up, then bring it down in a powerful, chopping motion. The unique motion of this kick makes it a crucial part of the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks.
The Ax Kick is a versatile tool in both forms and sparring. In sparring, it can be used to strike at an opponent’s head or to break through their guard. In forms, it is a key component of many patterns, and it is a test of a practitioner’s balance and flexibility. The ability to perform a powerful and accurate Ax Kick is a testament to a practitioner’s dedication and their skill. This is why it is a must-learn for any beginner, and a key entry among the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks. The sheer power of this kick makes it one of the most important of the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks.
| Stat | The Ax Kick is most effective when targeting the clavicle, as the downward force of the kick can be devastating. |
4. Bandae Dolyeo Chagi (Reverse Turning Kick)
The Bandae Dolyeo Chagi, or Reverse Turning Kick, is a kick that is used to strike an opponent with the heel of the foot. It is a kick that is known for its incredible power and its ability to surprise an opponent. The key to mastering this kick is to properly turn your body and to extend your leg with a powerful thrust. The surprise element of this kick is what makes it a crucial part of the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks.
The Reverse Turning Kick is a powerful kick that can be used to strike an opponent’s body or head. In sparring, it can be used as a counter-attack or as a way to surprise an opponent who is too close. In forms, it is a key component of many patterns, and it is a test of a practitioner’s balance and coordination. The ability to perform a powerful and accurate Reverse Turning Kick is a hallmark of a skilled Taekwondo practitioner. This is why it is an essential part of the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks. The tactical advantage of this kick is what makes it one of the most difficult of the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks.
| Stat | The Reverse Turning Kick can generate up to 2,000 pounds of force when a practitioner’s full body weight is put into the kick. |
3. Dollyo Chagi (Hook Kick)
The Dollyo Chagi, or Hook Kick, is a kick that is used to strike an opponent with the heel of the foot. It is a kick that is known for its incredible accuracy and its ability to strike an opponent’s head or torso from a different angle than a traditional roundhouse kick. The key to mastering this kick is to properly chamber the leg and to extend it in a circular motion, hooking the opponent’s head or body. The unique motion of this kick makes it a crucial part of the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks.
The Hook Kick is a versatile tool in both forms and sparring. In sparring, it can be used to strike at an opponent’s weak points. In forms, it is a key component of many patterns, and it is a test of a practitioner’s accuracy and focus. The ability to perform a powerful and accurate Hook Kick is a testament to a practitioner’s dedication and their skill. Every serious student must master this kick, which is why it’s a key entry among the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks. The focus on accuracy makes it one of the most unique of the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks.
| Stat | The Hook Kick is often used in breaking demonstrations, where a practitioner must hit a small target with a powerful and accurate kick. |
2. Gulleo Chagi (Sliding Kick)
The Gulleo Chagi, or Sliding Kick, is a kick that is used to close the distance between a practitioner and an opponent. It is a kick that is known for its incredible speed and its ability to surprise an opponent. The key to mastering this kick is to properly slide forward with the front foot and to extend the back foot in a powerful thrust. The ability to close the distance quickly is what makes it a crucial part of the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks.
The Sliding Kick is a powerful kick that can be used to strike an opponent’s body or head. In sparring, it can be used as a way to surprise an opponent who is too far away. In forms, it is a key component of many patterns, and it is a test of a practitioner’s speed and coordination. The ability to perform a powerful and accurate Sliding Kick is a hallmark of a skilled Taekwondo practitioner. This is why it is an essential part of the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks. The speed of this kick is what makes it one of the most important of the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks.
| Stat | The Sliding Kick is one of the fastest kicks in Taekwondo, as it can be executed in less than a second. |
1. Dwikkoora Chagi (Spinning Back Kick)
The Dwikkoora Chagi, or Spinning Back Kick, is a powerful kick that is used to strike an opponent with the heel of the foot. It is a kick that is known for its incredible power and its ability to surprise an opponent. The key to mastering this kick is to properly turn your body and to extend your leg with a powerful thrust. The surprise element of this kick is what makes it a crucial part of the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks.
The Spinning Back Kick is a powerful kick that can be used to strike an opponent’s body or head. In sparring, it can be used as a counter-attack or as a way to surprise an opponent who is too close. In forms, it is a key component of many patterns, and it is a test of a practitioner’s balance and coordination. The ability to perform a powerful and accurate Spinning Back Kick is a hallmark of a skilled Taekwondo practitioner. This is why it is an essential part of the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks. The tactical advantage of this kick is what makes it one of the most difficult of the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks.
| Stat | The Spinning Back Kick is a kick that is often used in competitive sparring to score a knockout or to end a match. |
FAQs :
Q1: What is the most important kick for a beginner to learn?
A1: The Front Snap Kick (Ap Chagi) is the most important kick for a beginner to learn, as it is the foundation for all other kicks and a key part of the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks.
Q2: Why is the Roundhouse Kick so popular in Taekwondo?
A2: The Roundhouse Kick is popular for its speed, power, and versatility, which make it a high-scoring kick in competition and a key part of the Top 10 Taekwondo Kicks.
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