Hip Shifting Without Stance Switching
The fundamental challenge for orthodox fighters attacking the rear leg is achieving proper hip rotation without a full stance switch. By shifting the hips forward into a southpaw position while maintaining an orthodox stance, the fighter can access the rear leg target. This hip-dominant movement eliminates the need for a complete stance transition.
Setup with Jab-Cross Combination
The jab-cross combination serves as an effective setup for rear leg engagement. As the cross extends fully, the shoulders and hips naturally rotate, allowing the fighter to adjust their feet and transition into position for the kick. This combination provides timing, distance closure, and hip activation in a single sequence.
Closing Distance and Committing Fully
Insufficient distance closure is a common error that results in vertical rather than horizontal leg kick placement. The fighter must commit to driving forward aggressively, conceptually "headbutting" the opponent to ensure adequate penetration. This aggressive entry denies the opponent space to counter and maximizes kicking power.
Proper Drop and Shin Placement
The drop kick requires the fighter to descend sharply while extending the leg horizontally to achieve maximum shin contact on the target. The torso should compress and drive forward simultaneously, generating power through hip extension rather than vertical movement. Reaching for depth ensures optimal impact coverage across the opponent's rear leg.
Variation One: Direct Drive Entry
The most direct approach involves executing a one-two combination followed by a forward step, descent, and immediate rear leg kick. This variation minimizes lateral movement and maximizes forward momentum. It is the foundational pattern from which other variations branch.
Variation Two: Lateral Switch Entry
The fighter steps off to the side while switching into southpaw stance, then drives back inward to deliver the rear leg kick. Critical to this variation is the return drive—many practitioners throw the kick from the expanded position, dissipating accumulated power. The lateral step merely repositions; the drive-in generates the strike.
Variation Three: In-Place Shift Entry
Without resetting the rear foot, the fighter shifts weight laterally then immediately shifts back while driving the rear leg kick. This continuous weight transfer maintains offensive momentum and reduces telegraphing. The technique allows seamless transitioning between combinations without a reset phase.
Hand Control and Defensive Positioning
Occupying the opponent's hands through parrying or controlling their guard is essential during all phases of the attack. Before, during, and after the kick, the fighter remains in a vulnerable position requiring strong defensive structure. Maintaining hand engagement prevents effective counters and creates a protective framework around the strike.
Weight Distribution and Head Position
The fighter's weight must stay forward throughout the movement, with the head positioned over the knee and front foot at the point of balance. Remaining too upright or maintaining weight in the rear leg severely reduces power generation and leaves the striker exposed. Committing fully means aggressive forward positioning from entry through impact.
Attacking the rear leg tutorial
Key Takeaways
- •Hip Shifting Without Stance Switching
- •Setup with Jab-Cross Combination
- •Closing Distance and Committing Fully
- •Proper Drop and Shin Placement
Been asked frequently to do a tutorial on attacking the rear leg, which many people find difficult. So here you go. Drop me some feedback below and I will try to do more of these #techniquetuesdays 👊🏼🙏🏼 The speaker on the floor I was using for reference to where the lead leg would be located #kevinross #thesoulassassin #muaythai #kickboxing #tutorial
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about drop hooking back kick?
This video covers hip shifting without stance switching, setup with jab-cross combination, closing distance and committing fully. It provides detailed instruction from Kevin Ross Official.
How long does it take to learn drop hooking back kick?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 9-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing drop hooking back kick?
Occupying the opponent's hands through parrying or controlling their guard is essential during all phases of the attack. Before, during, and after the kick, the fighter remains in a vulnerable position requiring strong defensive structure. Maintaining hand engagement prevents effective counters and creates a protective framework around the strike.
