Imagine harnessing the power of a kick that can keep your opponents at bay, make them think twice before attacking, and potentially turn the tide of a fight in your favor. Enter the oblique kick, also known as the blade kick, as coined by Joe Rogan. Let's delve into the mechanics, main functions, and benefits of this effective combat technique.
How to Execute the Oblique Kick: Tips and Benefits for Combat Success
Controlling Distance with the Oblique Kick:
The oblique kick excels at maintaining distance between you and your opponent. Use the natural length of your legs as an interception tool when faced with incoming punches. Your legs possess a natural advantage in reach over your opponent's arms, allowing you to keep them at bay.
The Most Effective Way to Control Distance:
The oblique kick, also called the cross van kick in Wing Chun, targets the knees by kicking across the body. Execute this technique using either your front leg, which typically performs a side kick, or your back leg. Control distance by lifting your knee like a giant claw while keeping it slightly bent. Achieve more power by raising your knee as high as possible during the kick. Don't limit yourself to targeting the knee; you can also kick the quad.
Coaching Tips for the Oblique Kick:
When training Sandor MMA fighters, we focus on kicking the quad with the heel of the foot. This approach results in a bruise on the thigh, causing continuous damage and making it increasingly difficult for the opponent to fight as the bout progresses. The heel's penetration into the quads deadens the leg, proving more effective than a simple roundhouse chopping kick to the side of the leg.
Angling the Kick for Optimal Results:
Remember to angle your oblique kick to off-balance and destabilize your opponent. Step slightly to the side and kick through the center to connect the kick and throw off your opponent's balance, potentially causing them to fall. By stepping to the outside and kicking the side of the knee, you can twist the knee's tendons and ligaments. Although controversial, this technique can be a good trade-off in a self-defense situation, as it might leave your attacker with a lifelong limp if they're trying to inflict serious harm on you.
Conclusion:
Incorporate the oblique kick into your combat arsenal to experience its effectiveness firsthand. Keep in mind the key points discussed for executing this kick with the greatest impact, and don't hesitate to try it, especially if you're a taller fighter. Unleash the power of the oblique kick and gain the upper hand in your battles.