Introduction: The Spinning Back Kick
The spinning back kick is one of the most powerful strikes in martial arts, but only when executed correctly. Many practitioners make a critical error that undermines the technique's effectiveness. This guide addresses that fundamental mistake and provides solutions.
Defining the Back Kick
A proper back kick is defined by the performer's back facing the opponent, with shoulders squared to the opposite wall and toes pointing 180 degrees away from the target. Impact occurs with the heel, toes pointing downward. Any deviation from this 180-degree alignment transforms the technique into a turning side kick.
The Common Mistake: Unintended Conversion
Many practitioners begin with the intent to throw a spinning back kick but inadvertently convert it into a turning side kick mid-execution. This error typically occurs because excessive head rotation causes corresponding spine and hip rotation, which changes foot alignment and technique type.
The Spotting Solution: One-Eye Technique
To maintain proper back kick alignment, practitioners should spot the target with only the corner of one eye, not both eyes. The moment full eye contact is achieved, the body naturally rotates further, converting the kick to a side kick. Initiating the kick immediately upon corner-eye recognition ensures proper technique execution.
Reframing the Mental Model
Rather than thinking of these techniques as continuous spinning motions, practitioners should conceptualize them as turnaround techniques with straight-line delivery. The rotation phase is merely setup; the actual kick travels linearly to the target. This mental distinction prevents over-rotation and maintains technical integrity.
Avoiding Over-Rotation
Completing a full rotation during kick execution causes the strike to veer off-line and results in loss of balance. The kick should travel straight to the target immediately after the optimal rotation point is achieved. Practitioners must resist the natural impulse to continue spinning.
The Practical Execution
The complete sequence is: turn, peak with one eye at the target, and execute the kick immediately. This three-step process ensures technical precision and maintains the technique's devastating power. Hand position should remain engaged for balance and safety.
How to Fix Your Spinning Back Kick / Turning Side Kick
Key Takeaways
- •Introduction: The Spinning Back Kick
- •Defining the Back Kick
- •The Common Mistake: Unintended Conversion
- •The Spotting Solution: One-Eye Technique
The spinning back kick is a powerful strike... if you throw it correctly! But many people make one big mistake. Try this trick and then check out my Kicking Basics Course! http://www.senseiando.com/kicking-basics-course/ The mistake is spinning too much. You hear the word spinning and think you have to move around in a full circle. You don't! Even though you START making a circle, the spinning back kick and turning side kick are both actually straight line attacks. So, the trick is to stop your spin before you kick. If you don't, your kick will fly off into space and throw you off-balance. For me, a back kick means that my back will be facing my opponent. To make sure I don't spin too far, I only spot my target with ONE eye, not two! The more you turn your head, the more you turn your body and feet... which turns your back kick into a side kick. So, start your spin, and as soon as you can see your target out of the corner of your leading eye, throw the kick. Turn, peek, kick. That's how to keep your spinning back kick straight. 👍🏼Thanks for LIKING and SUBSCRIBING! 🔔 http://bit.ly/SenseiAndo Keep fighting for a happy life! 🥧 BUY ME A PIECE OF PIE: (Thank you!) https://paypal.me/SenseiAndo 🖥️ ONLINE VIDEO COURSES https://www.senseiando.com/school/ 💪🏼TRAIN WITH ANDO (Online or in-person): https://www.senseiando.com/train-with-ando/ ✅7-DAY MARTIAL ARTS CHALLENGE! https://www.senseiando.com/updates/ ▶︎ Website: http://www.senseiando.com ▶︎ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ando_mierzwa/ ▶︎ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SenseiAndo 👕 Tee Shirts: Shop: https://teespring.com/stores/happy-life-martial-arts ❌WARNING: The advice and movements shown in this video are for informational and educational purposes only. Consult a doctor before engaging in any exercise or martial arts program. #backkick #howtokick #spinning
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about standard spinning back kick?
This video covers introduction: the spinning back kick, defining the back kick, the common mistake: unintended conversion. It provides detailed instruction from Ando Mierzwa.
How long does it take to learn standard spinning back kick?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 7-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing standard spinning back kick?
Completing a full rotation during kick execution causes the strike to veer off-line and results in loss of balance. The kick should travel straight to the target immediately after the optimal rotation point is achieved. Practitioners must resist the natural impulse to continue spinning.
