Introduction & Instructor Credentials

Gabriel Verga, a six-time professional kickboxing world champion and fourth-degree black belt in karate, presents a systematic 30-day routine for improving high kick height. Though his competition focus has shifted toward boxing, Verga maintains exceptional high kick technique and shares this specialized knowledge with practitioners of all levels.

The Two Primary Limitations

High kick height restrictions stem from two distinct issues: improper technique or insufficient hip mobility and flexibility. By addressing both factors systematically, practitioners can overcome the ceiling of chest-level kicks and achieve head-level technique regardless of current ability.

Hip Strengthening Exercises

Begin with isometric strengthening rather than flexibility work. Practitioners should perform pulsing lifts (10 repetitions) and hip extensions (10 repetitions) against a wall, emphasizing proper foot pivot position. Progressive overload to 50 repetitions builds the hip musculature necessary for explosive high kicks.

Hip Opening Stretch #1: 90-Degree Spread

From a wide-legged position, drop both knees to one side, targeting groin flexibility. Increase difficulty by lifting the hips and pressing forward with the hands. This rotational stretch mimics the kicking motion more effectively than static splits.

Hip Opening Stretch #2: Windshield Wiper

From a hands-and-knees position with 90-degree knee angles, push hips backward while performing a windshield-wiper motion with the heel toward the buttocks. Pulse and pause during transitions to maximize mobility gains through dynamic movement patterns.

Critical Technical Error: Shoulder-Hip Disconnection

The most common high kick mistake involves keeping the rear shoulder back while advancing the hip, which mechanically prevents the leg from floating upward. The hip and shoulder must rotate as a unified system to enable proper kick extension.

Proper High Kick Mechanics

Execute the kick by opening the pivot foot, driving the hip forward with synchronized shoulder rotation, then drawing the knee upward using developed hip strength. Slight head lean backward facilitates leg clearance and natural height extension.

Progressive Implementation & Results

A consistent five-minute daily routine combining strength work, mobility stretches, and technical drilling produces measurable improvement within 30 days. Verga emphasizes that head-level kicks are achievable for all practitioners regardless of previous training experience or flexibility limitations.

How To Get HIGHER Kicks

Gabriel Varga

Standard High Kick

2 min read·8 key moments·PT8M3S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction & Instructor Credentials
•The Two Primary Limitations
•Hip Strengthening Exercises
•Hip Opening Stretch #1: 90-Degree Spread

How can you get your kicks higher? In this high kick tutorial I show you the best ways to get your legs kicking up to head level. Practice daily for a month to get outstanding results. And use this Van-Damme style follow along to really challenge yourself: https://youtu.be/ieH-PhSYcUM Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 1:17 Build Hip Strength 3:11 Stretches 4:45 Kicking Technique _______________________________________________________ Book Online Zoom Sessions https://GabrielVarga.as.me/ (availability is always changing depending on my training intensity) 💥 Magnesium Supplement For Improved Sleep & Recovery Use code: Gabriel10 for a 10% discount! https://magnesiumbreakthrough.com/gabriel 💥 Diamond Cup ***Save 10% Use promo code "VARGA10" to save 10% at https://www.diamondmma.com/gabrielvarga I'd suggest the Compression Jock Shorts combo with Cup included. 💥 XMartial Rash Guards & Shorts https://www.xmartial.com/?ref=GVARGA Discount code 10% Off: GABRIELVARGA 💥Custom Mouthguard Use promocode "gabrielvarga" to save 10% at https://www.impactmouthguards.com/?ref=17wRaj6Sn9CR 💥 Massage Gun & Thermosleeve Use promo code "GABRIELVARGA" to save US$4-20 at https://hey.hydragun.com/Gabriel-Varga 💥 Muay Thai body liniment. Athlon Rub. No colours or dyes. FDA approved. Product Link: https://athlonrub.com/?rfsn=4530757.6f573f Use promo code "gabrielvarga" to save 15% Here's some other videos you may enjoy! 8 Ways To Beat Pressure Fighters w/ Examples From GLORY Title Fight https://youtu.be/DfboF0CN7fM Varga vs Lerdsila | Full Fight with Gabriel Varga Commentary https://youtu.be/myw10viSojk Flexibility/Mobility for High Kick & High Kick Drills https://youtu.be/VL5CIMJZSgQ Sprint Routine for Fighters https://youtu.be/f4FfzemS8n4 How to Round Kick Like Buakaw https://youtu.be/zaxZvELNGIc How I Beat "The Poster Boy of American Muay Thai" KEVIN ROSS https://youtu.be/p3B7koaMvBE

Related Techniques

Question Mark Kick Switch High Kick

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about standard high kick?

This video covers introduction & instructor credentials, the two primary limitations, hip strengthening exercises. It provides detailed instruction from Gabriel Varga.

How long does it take to learn standard high 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.