Overview and Kick Variants
The axe kick exists in two primary variants distinguished by direction of approach. The outside-to-in variation is called Soto Orochi Kekato Gary in Japanese, while the inside-to-out variant is known as Uchi Orochi Kekato Gary. Both techniques require adequate warm-up to minimize injury risk.
Strike Surface and Target Areas
The axe kick employs the heel (kekato) as the striking surface, with the toes pulled back upon impact. Primary target areas include the crown of the head, the bridge of the nose, and most commonly the collarbone, which the heel drives downward to fracture.
Inside-to-Out Technique Breakdown
In the inside-to-out axe kick, the rear leg crosses in front of the stance leg in a swimming motion, then lifts vertically. The leg then drives down the center line with the heel descending directly through the middle rather than swinging outward, avoiding transition into a kyage kick.
Outside-to-In Technique Breakdown
The outside-to-in variant initiates with the rear leg lifting from behind and traveling laterally. As the leg reaches the center line, the heel drives downward with explosive force, dropping like an axe blade through the middle of the body.
Center-Line Accuracy Drill
A practical drill for reinforcing proper center-line delivery involves placing two cones or markers on the ground in front of the practitioner. The executing leg should land between the cones on completion of the kick, ensuring the technique does not deviate laterally beyond the intended path.
Gate Opening and Closing Mobility Exercise
Two foundational mobility drills condition the hip for axe kick execution. The inside-to-out drill involves lifting the knee outward to the side (opening the gate), while the outside-to-in drill brings the knee forward (closing the gate).
Dynamic Stretch Kicks
Front stretch kicks and dynamic kyage variations develop flexibility in the kicking range. The inside-to-out stretch kick (Uchi Kyage) and outside-to-in stretch kick (Soto Kyage) should each be performed with focus on achieving full height through complete range of motion.
Hamstring Flexibility Training
A dedicated hamstring conditioning exercise involves extending one leg straight while hinging at the hips to lower the torso. The hands walk forward and backward along the floor while the legs remain extended, performed for 5 sets of 10 repetitions to maximize flexibility gains.
How to AXE KICK - Martial Arts Tutorial
Key Takeaways
- •Overview and Kick Variants
- •Strike Surface and Target Areas
- •Inside-to-Out Technique Breakdown
- •Outside-to-In Technique Breakdown
Axe kick. This video demonstrates how to axe kick, including the kick technique, foot position, where to strike to and how to improve your mobility and flexibility for a better kick. Improve your kicks with this martial arts tutorial. Subscribe to my channel for Health, Fitness, Martial Arts and Lifestyle Videos: https://www.youtube.com/MPEliteFitness?sub_confirmation=1 Fitness training Karate training Learn karate Martial arts training Self defence Improve your martial arts training Kyokushin karate Shotokan Karate Karate tuition MP Elite Fitness MPEF Martial Arts Academy www.mpelitefitness.com Follow on instagram.com/mpelitefitness For live online martial arts training send us an email: [email protected]
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about axe kick?
This video covers overview and kick variants, strike surface and target areas, inside-to-out technique breakdown. It provides detailed instruction from MP Elite Fitness.
How long does it take to learn axe 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 axe kick?
Front stretch kicks and dynamic kyage variations develop flexibility in the kicking range. The inside-to-out stretch kick (Uchi Kyage) and outside-to-in stretch kick (Soto Kyage) should each be performed with focus on achieving full height through complete range of motion.
