Hook Kick – Martial Arts Technique

This page provides details on the martial arts hook kick or whip kick. This can be a deceptive kick because the kick appears to miss the target before snapping back and hitting with the heel of the foot. Moreover, this technique is used as part of the more powerful spinning hook kick. For information on other martial arts kicks (i.e. axe kick), please visit Black Belt Wiki’s main kicking techniques page.

Martial arts kicks and all other martial arts techniques should only be practiced under the supervision of a trained martial arts instructor in order to prevent injuries and to ensure the proper technique is utilized. In addition, all martial arts techniques and training should be used safely and responsibly.

Written Kicking Instructions

  • For a right front leg hook kick, students should aim slightly to the left of the target before snapping the foot back and hitting the target with the heel of the foot.
  • For a rear leg hook kick, there can a problem with this kick because the martial artists can over rotate and generate a weak kick (as they need to go against the momentum of the initial part of this kick). A front leg hook kick lacks this problem because the martial artists is just raising their leg into position for the snap/hook versus rotating their leg into position.
  • For these kicks, a martial artists needs to work on the flexibility of their hip flexors, groin, etc.

Video for a Hook or Whip Kick

Video for a Front Foot Hook or Whip Kick

Video for a Rear Foot Hook or Whip Kick

How To Use Hook Kick or Whip Kick in Sparring