Technique Overview: Double Side Kick

The double side kick, also known as a tornado kick or 360 side kick, consists of two consecutive linear side kicks executed during a spinning rotation. The technique begins with the back leg and concludes with the front leg, making it significantly more challenging than circular spinning attacks due to its narrow margin for error.

Why Linear Kicks Are Difficult When Spinning

Circular attacks like wheel kicks provide a large striking surface and greater margin for error during rotation. In contrast, linear side kicks require precise timing and accuracy, as the striker must connect straight without deviation. This fundamental difference makes the double side kick more technically demanding than its circular counterparts.

Foundational Drill: Basic Foot Placement

Practitioners should begin with a stationary double side kick by placing the non-dominant foot back and executing a simple jump-switch pattern. The dominant leg should deliver the second kick to ensure maximum power and control. This drill develops the core switching mechanics before introducing rotation.

Initiation Phase: The Touch and Jump

The technique begins with a light touch kick from the back leg to gauge distance and frame the opponent, rather than committing full power to the first strike. This touch serves as both measurement and setup, allowing the practitioner to determine proper spacing before launching airborne. Only after establishing contact should the practitioner jump and execute the second kick with full force.

Advanced Variation: Non-Contact Knee Drive

Advanced practitioners can omit the touch phase and use knee momentum to propel the body upward without initial foot contact. This method eliminates variables created by opponent interference mid-transition and generates additional vertical height for the second kick.

Tactical Application and Distance Management

The double side kick is most effective when the opponent has retreated to limited space, such as against the cage or wall, and is unlikely to advance aggressively. The technique extends striking range significantly and catches opponents attempting to barely evade the first kick. Practitioners should recognize situations where the opponent's positioning makes this technique optimal.

Power Generation and Body Mechanics

The double side kick generates substantial power through the combination of rotational momentum and linear extension of the rear leg. Full-power execution requires controlled hip rotation and proper weight transfer, creating a deceptively devastating strike unsuitable for uncontrolled practice.

Height Variation and Balance Considerations

Practitioners can adjust kick height by modifying body angle during rotation, but increased elevation compromises stability and balance. Strikes should target effective mid-range heights rather than maximum height, as the optimal target zone provides superior power and control.

Bonus Variation: Double Wheel Kick

A circular alternative exists using roundhouse kick mechanics, which provides greater margin for error in contact point. While this variation offers easier execution, it sacrifices the penetrating power of the linear double side kick and requires careful practice to maintain control.

Training Considerations and Progression

Consistent, controlled practice is essential for developing this technique, as momentum-based kicks are difficult to regulate at speed. Practitioners should progress from stationary drills to touch-and-jump combinations before adding full rotation and power, ensuring technical proficiency before applying the technique in dynamic scenarios.

360 Side Kick Tutorial (Double Tap Side Kick by Raymond Daniels)

Sensei Seth

Double Side Kick

3 min read·10 key moments·PT8M59S video

Key Takeaways

•Technique Overview: Double Side Kick
•Why Linear Kicks Are Difficult When Spinning
•Foundational Drill: Basic Foot Placement
•Initiation Phase: The Touch and Jump

If you want to throw some fancy spinning stuff like Raymond Daniels, the double tap side kick (or butterfly kick, tornado kick, side spinning side kick, 360 side kick, 360 back kick, ...whatever you want to call it) is a great option to start with!! Check out some of my online courses! https://senseiseth.teachable.com/ Want Hayabusa Gear?? Use my link! http://www.Hayabusafight.com/senseiseth/ Go follow my Insta for videos of cool kicks and me getting beat up by kids: http://www.instagram.com/sensei_seth https://www.SenseiSeth.com/ Songs.. Intro music: “Flintstone” by Cxdy https://www.youtube.com/user/ACRProduction9 https://youtu.be/A0c44Ffjj-4 Outro Music: “Pillow Talk” X I X X Music Provided by YouTubers Music https://youtu.be/jb_R8RjTbKs Karate, Taekwondo, Muay Thai, Kung Fu, MMA, UFC, Sensei Seth, Kata, Kumite, Sparring, Fight, Boxing, Kick, Side Kick, Yoko Geri, Roundhouse Kick, Spinning Wheel Kick, Tricking, Bottlecap Challenge

Related Techniques

Back Side Kick Front Chamber Side Kick Front Leg Side Kick Hand-on-the-Floor Side Kick Kneeling-Up Side Kick

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about double side kick?

This video covers technique overview: double side kick, why linear kicks are difficult when spinning, foundational drill: basic foot placement. It provides detailed instruction from Sensei Seth.

How long does it take to learn double side kick?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 10-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.