Switch Kick – Martial Arts Technique

This page provides details for a martial arts “Switch Kick”. This kicking technique is often used in sparring matches when a stronger rear leg kick is negated by the position of the opponent’s stance. This sparring technique is often used in Muay ThaiTaekwondo, etc. It should not be confused with the Krav Maga Switch Kick which is a type of double kick. For information on other martial arts kicks (i.e. axe kick), please visit Black Belt Wiki’s main kicking techniques page.

With the switch kick, the martial artist will switch his legs (rear leg takes the forward stance and the front leg takes the rear stance) in order to better attack the target. For example, since the initial rear leg would have hit the opponent’s back (which is a penalty in most sparring matches), the martial artist quickly switches their feet so the rear leg will hit the front of the opponent.

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.

Video on the Muay Thai Switch Kick