The Oblique Back Side Kick: Overview and Applications
The oblique back side kick is a devastating finishing technique that has proven effective in high-level competition. This kick is particularly valuable for stopping opponents decisively, with applications ranging from body shots to limb targeting. When executed properly with solid fundamentals, it becomes a reliable weapon that can end fights.
Deception Through Stance Neutrality
The key to landing this kick lies in maintaining an ambiguous stance that reveals no telegraphing. A balanced, centered position allows the practitioner to throw multiple kick options—back leg kicks, spinning techniques, or front leg strikes—without the opponent detecting the intended technique. Poor practitioners give away their intentions by sticking their hips out before spinning or squaring up before rear hand techniques.
The Pivot-Look-Kick Sequence
The fundamental execution pattern follows three clear stages: pivot the base foot, look back toward the target, and deliver the kick. This sequence should flow as one continuous motion rather than distinct, separated movements. From a neutral fighting stance, the practitioner pivots on the base foot while the body rotates and the kicking leg extends with linear power.
Reading Opponent Telegraphing
Advanced practitioners gain advantages not through superior athleticism but through reading opponents' movements fractionally ahead of execution. This skill develops by eliminating personal telegraphs—recognizing that spinning techniques often expose the hips and that hand strikes expose square shoulders. Consistent practice eliminates these tells and makes all attacking options equally disguised.
Linear Path Over Wide Arcs
A linear, direct path to the target is faster and harder to read than a wide, arcing trajectory. Wide swings create vulnerability if an opponent moves forward, potentially placing them inside the kick's range. The more direct and straight the technique travels, the more difficult it becomes to defend against and the faster it reaches the target.
Practical Combat Effectiveness
This kick has proven effective for striking multiple target zones—heads, arms, ribs, and knees—making it a versatile finishing technique. The whipping, linear nature of the strike delivers significant impact even if an opponent initiates forward movement. When properly set up and executed from proper distance, this kick becomes a high-percentage finishing weapon.
The Donkey Kick Philosophy
The concept of throwing 'like a donkey'—with a straight, powerful extension—ensures the kick maintains effectiveness even if the opponent closes distance or escapes. This approach prioritizes direct power and knee targeting over spinning mechanics, creating a reliable contingency that still damages opponents moving forward. It represents a practical mindset focused on fight-ending results rather than technical perfection.
Setup Requirements and Range Consideration
This kick is not a standalone technique that works at any distance; proper setup and positioning are essential to its success. The practitioner must establish and maintain optimal fighting range where the kick can be deployed before the opponent can close or retreat. Understanding this range requirement separates effective practitioners from those who throw the technique without proper tactical foundation.
How To End A Fight With A Back Kick With Chip Townsend
Key Takeaways
- •The Oblique Back Side Kick: Overview and Applications
- •Deception Through Stance Neutrality
- •The Pivot-Look-Kick Sequence
- •Reading Opponent Telegraphing
If you want to learn to do something right, it is best to learn from the best in the business. When it comes to kicking, there are very few people on the planet more elite than Chip Townsend. Chip holds 14 ISKA (International Sport Karate Association) World Titles in Breaking. Now, "boards don't hit back," but if you witnessed the impact of any of this man's kicks, you would not be hitting back either. Here, he breaks down how to train a Back Kick and outlines the techniques you can use to make your kick more powerful. You can find more Chip Townsend Here: Team Chip Affiliate portal link: https://www.teamchipaffiliate.com/ FB page: https://www.facebook.com/thechiptownsend1 IG Page: https://www.instagram.com/chip_townsend/ Team Chip HQ FB page: https://www.facebook.com/teamchipmartialarts
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about oblique back side kick?
This video covers the oblique back side kick: overview and applications, deception through stance neutrality, the pivot-look-kick sequence. It provides detailed instruction from Budo Brothers.
How long does it take to learn oblique back side kick?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 8-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing oblique back side kick?
The concept of throwing 'like a donkey'—with a straight, powerful extension—ensures the kick maintains effectiveness even if the opponent closes distance or escapes. This approach prioritizes direct power and knee targeting over spinning mechanics, creating a reliable contingency that still damages opponents moving forward. It represents a practical mindset focused on fight-ending results rather than technical perfection.
