The ax kick uses the force of gravity to hit the target with the heel or sole of the foot by dropping the foot from top to bottom.

The first picture shows the opponent crouching in to grab his target but the woman lifts her leg and drops it on the opponent’s shoulder.

Ax kicks consist of a straight leg with the foot raised up in the air. From there, the leg is dropped with the heel of the foot aiming to hit the face or body of an opponent.

This kick is recommended for opponents who are approaching from the front and are similar or shorter than you in height.

There is a possibility that you may injure your muscles if you bring your leg up too high. Therefore, practice raising your leg to the highest point you can handle without straining the yourself.

After building your confidence in performing the ax kick, try to practice targeting by hitting light and safe objects like a newspaper. To perfect this technique, it is recommended to carefully practice with a partner.

By Seo Gyo-sun (selfdefense777@gmail.com)

Seo Gyo-sun, an internationally certified Taekwondo Grand Master, judge and coach, holds a B.A. in taekwondo from Kyung Kee University. ― Ed.