Introduction to the Tornado Kick
The tornado kick, also known as a flying spin roundhouse, is an unconventional striking technique that catches opponents off guard due to its rarity in training. Its effectiveness is enhanced by visual surprise and aesthetic appeal to both spectators and judges when executed successfully.
Stance and Setup
The technique begins with the striker assuming a fighting stance with the right side forward. The tornado kick is executed as a flying kick using the front leg as the striking limb while the back leg provides elevation and forward momentum.
Step One: The Spin
The first movement involves looking over the back shoulder while rotating the feet to face away from the target. This pivot is essential for generating rotational momentum and maintaining visual contact with the opponent throughout the technique.
Step Two: Back Leg Elevation
The back leg lifts and chambers across the body, bringing it forward in front of the striker. This leg serves as the primary elevation mechanism and must travel forward rather than laterally to ensure the striking leg delivers power straight ahead rather than to the side.
Step Three: Jump and Strike
As the back leg continues its forward trajectory, the striker jumps explosively off the ground while simultaneously extending the front leg as the striking instrument. The combination of these movements generates significant power while covering substantial distance.
Advanced Variation: Stepping Forward
An optional intermediate step involves the back leg briefly stepping forward before executing the elevation sequence. This additional movement increases distance coverage and generates additional power, though it adds complexity to the technique's timing.
Setup Strategy: Spin Hook Kick Feint
The most effective setup utilizes a spin hook kick as a feint to manipulate opponent hand positioning. By throwing a spin hook kick to the face or body, the striker trains the opponent to raise and lower their guard, creating openings for the tornado kick to land cleanly.
Target Variations and Application
The feinted spin hook kick can be directed to multiple targets including the head, body, and legs depending on the opponent's defensive positioning and distance. Successful application across all three target zones has been demonstrated in sparring scenarios.
Advanced Progression: The 540 Kick
Practitioners ready to advance can progress to the 540 variation, where the striker lands on the same leg that initiated the technique rather than the elevating leg. This advanced iteration requires greater rotational control and momentum management.
TORNADO KICK | How To Throw And Set It Up In MMA | Stephen Wonderboy Thompson
Key Takeaways
- •Introduction to the Tornado Kick
- •Stance and Setup
- •Step One: The Spin
- •Step Two: Back Leg Elevation
Today we are going over the Tornado Kick and how to throw it and set it up in MMA. It is an interesting technique that is fun and flashy but you don't see a whole lot of them in MMA. I don't believe a lot of fighters today prepare for it which is why it can be successful. It is not a technique to rely heavily on in your arsenal, but it can be useful to catch someone off guard. I want to see your best Tornado Kicks!! Post them on social media and tag me @wonderboymma !!! DON'T FORGET TO SUBSCRIBE FOR CONTENT WEEKLY! BRING WONDERBOY OUT FOR A SEMINAR FOR YOUR AREA!!! For Inquiries Please E Mail Sweet T @ [email protected] BRAND NEW WONDERBOY MERCH OUT NOW: https://pitchblackfightshop.com/ AWESOME music I use for my videos: https://bit.ly/2GDyMLN (Get 2 EXTRA months) Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/wonderboymma https://www.facebook.com/Wonderboymma https://twitter.com/WonderboyMMA
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about standard flying roundhouse?
This video covers introduction to the tornado kick, stance and setup, step one: the spin. It provides detailed instruction from Stephen Wonderboy Thompson.
How long does it take to learn standard flying roundhouse?
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 standard flying roundhouse?
The feinted spin hook kick can be directed to multiple targets including the head, body, and legs depending on the opponent's defensive positioning and distance. Successful application across all three target zones has been demonstrated in sparring scenarios.
