Issue 043
November 2008
Taken from the art of Muay Thai, the low kick is one of the most effective weapons in MMA. The effects of repeated low kicks to the outside of the thigh can severely hamper a fighter’s mobility and, in some cases, force a retirement due to sheer agony. The low kick was first showcased in MMA back in 1995 by the Brazilian fighter Marco Ruas. Since then it has become a staple weapon in almost every fighter’s arsenal. Presented here are a few methods of countering this common attack.
The traditional low kick block
Here is the traditional defence against the low kick as used by Muay Thai fighters. The fighter’s weight is on the back leg, with the front leg raised off the floor so as to catch the oncoming blow on the shin.
The MMA low kick block
In this variation the fighter has his weight more evenly distributed on both feet. The point of his toes remain just on the ground, making it easier for him to readjust his base and balance should his opponent attempt a takedown following the kick. The blocking shin is turned out slightly at an angle so as to catch the blow on the hard part of the leg and not the fleshy area of the thigh.
Low kick block with counter
?
1) Matt (red shorts) and Gunnar (black) square off.
2) Gunnar throws a low kick with his rear leg in a roundhouse motion. Matt counters by turning his leg out at a slight angle and raising his leg slightly off the floor.
3) As Gunnar recovers the kick Matt throws a straight right to the head. He times it so the punch lands before Gunnar is able to put his foot back on the floor, vastly increasing the chance of knocking him off-balance.
Counter-punch during kick
1) Matt and Gunnar square off.
2) Gunnar throws the low kick to the leg. This time Matt steps forward and into the kick, stopping it in its tracks and taking away its power even though it still lands on the thigh. He simultaneously lands a straight right to the chin.
This counter is useful is you are caught ‘wrong footed’ and unable to perform the block in time but are still able to react to the kick.
Counter-punch after kick
1) Matt and Gunnar square off.
2) Gunnar lands the leg kick. Matt has been caught off guard or unaware and unable to perform a block or to counter the kick in motion. He has no choice but to soak the kick up, but keeps good footing throughout.
3) He returns with a straight right. He times the punch so that it lands during the recovery phase of the kick and before Gunnar can successfully bring the leg back.
