My Kata Life

Spinning Roundhouse

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The Spinning Roundhouse Kick, is similar to the Spinning Hook Kick / Ushiro Mawashi Geri but instead of a hook kick at the end its a roundhouse. This particular kick I couldn’t find an exact Japanese name for.

This kick I would consider a bit of a fake out. It looks like you are coming around to throw a hook kick but instead you throw a roundhouse.

How to Perform the Spinning Roundhouse Kick

1. Starting Stance

  • Begin in a natural, balanced fighting stance.
  • Ensure your weight is evenly distributed, and you are relaxed but alert.

2. Initiate the Spin

  • Pivot: If you are kicking with your right leg, pivot on the ball of your left (front) foot, turning your body to the right. Your back will momentarily face your target.
  • Look Over Shoulder: As you turn, look over your right shoulder to maintain visual contact with your target. This “spotting” is crucial for balance and accuracy throughout the spin.

3. Chamber the Kicking Leg

  • Lift and Chamber: As your body continues to rotate, lift your right (kicking) leg with the knee bent and brought up towards your chest.
  • Prepare for Roundhouse: Position your leg so that it is ready to extend in a powerful roundhouse motion, typically aiming to strike with the instep.

4. Execute the Kick

  • Extend and Rotate: Continue the rotation, extending your kicking leg in a powerful, circular motion towards the target. The power is generated from the full rotation of your hips and body.
  • Strike: Aim to strike with the instep (Haisoku). Drive through the target, not just to it.

5. Follow Through and Retract

  • Complete the Arc: Allow your leg to complete its full circular arc, following through past the target.
  • Retract: Quickly retract your leg back to a chambered position or directly to a stable stance. This rapid retraction is vital for maintaining balance and preparing for subsequent actions.

6. Land and Recover

  • Land softly and in control, completing your spin and returning to a balanced fighting stance, ready to defend or attack again.
  • Maintain your guard and awareness of your surroundings.

Video Reference

For a visual demonstration and further insights into performing the Ushiro Mawashi Geri, you can refer to this instructional video: