Introduction to the Spinning Hook Kick

The spinning hook kick, known as Bande Doryo Chagi in Korean martial arts and Ushiro Moshigiri in Karate, is a dynamic technique featured prominently in martial arts films and television. This technique combines rotational power with precision striking, making it both visually impressive and highly effective when executed correctly.

Foundational Stance and Setup

Practitioners must establish a side-on stance before executing the technique, as a frontal position telegraphs the movement and reduces effectiveness. Standing perpendicular to the target provides optimal positioning for generating power while maintaining deception in sparring applications.

Striking Surfaces and Contact Points

The spinning hook kick can be delivered using either the heel for maximum impact or the ball of the foot for extended reach. The choice of striking surface depends on the intended application and desired effect on the target.

Kinetic Chain Principles

Power generation in the spinning hook kick relies on the kinetic chain—the coordinated sequence of movements through the entire body. Rather than relying solely on leg strength, practitioners must engage their hips, shoulders, and core to transfer force efficiently from the ground through the striking surface.

Initial Weight Distribution and Heel Alignment

The technique begins by pointing the heel toward the target while lifting the heel to reduce friction during the spin. This positioning establishes the foundation for efficient rotation and applies to related techniques such as the spinning side kick and 360-degree kicks.

Upper Body Mechanics and Arm Movement

As weight shifts onto the supporting foot, the shoulders and arms must wind inward toward the axis of rotation, mimicking the principle used by dancers and gymnasts to increase rotational speed. This inward arm movement creates tension throughout the body that subsequently drives the leg into action.

Chamber Positioning and Leg Mechanics

Practitioners should chamber the striking leg in an inverted position rather than the traditional universal chamber to maximize rotational velocity. By drawing the knee inward during the spin—similar to the principle demonstrated by holding a leg extended while turning—the technique executes faster and with less telegraphic motion.

Complete Execution Sequence

The full technique flows as follows: shift weight backward, draw arms inward toward the rotation axis, lift through the inverted chamber, extend and make contact with the target. This sequence should be practiced at controlled speed before progressing to full-power applications.

Recovery and Follow-Through

After impact, practitioners must execute one of two recovery methods depending on the situation: either continue forward through the target or retract the leg along the same path used during extension. Maintaining upright posture throughout recovery prevents balance loss and allows for immediate defensive positioning.

How to / Tutorial: Reverse Turning Kick AKA Spinning Hook Kick. 반대돌려차기. 後ろ回し蹴り.

Van Roon Martial Arts

Spinning Hook Kick

2 min read·9 key moments·PT12M17S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to the Spinning Hook Kick
•Foundational Stance and Setup
•Striking Surfaces and Contact Points
•Kinetic Chain Principles

How to / Tutorial: Reverse Turning Kick AKA Spinning Hook Kick (반대돌려차기. 後ろ回し蹴り) In this video Carl van Roon looks at key considerations for the effective execution of the Taekwon-Do reverse turning kick. This tutorial covers how the Sport Science concept of the 'kinetic chain' can make this kick more efficient, fast and powerful from a bio-mechanical point of view. The latter half of the video briefly explores how to apply these principles for jumping and 540 hook versions of this kick and furthermore, how to train the technique for Taekwon-Do versus MMA (where it is being utilised more commonly now), including a brief discussion of points to consider how to adapt this kick for delivery from a more conventional Kickboxing / MMA fighting stance. Thank you for visiting Van Roon Martial Arts! Please Like, Comment and Subscribe! Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/vanroon.martialarts/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vanroonmartialarts/ FOR BOOKINGS EMAIL: [email protected] Tutorial by Carl van Roon 11 x World Champion - International Coach - Masters Degree in Sport Science

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about spinning hook kick?

This video covers introduction to the spinning hook kick, foundational stance and setup, striking surfaces and contact points. It provides detailed instruction from Van Roon Martial Arts.

How long does it take to learn spinning hook 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.