Karate Side Thrust Kick (Yoko-geri Kekomi)
Quick Information
Category
Combat Sports
Difficulty
Intermediate
Equipment
None
Primary muscle group
Gluteals, Hip Abductors
Secondary muscle groups
Quadriceps, Obliques, Adductors
Movement pattern
Lateral Thrust Kick
Training goal
Skill Acquisition
Sport
Karate, Kickboxing, General Athletic Development
Overview
Purpose. Deliver a linear thrusting kick along a lateral line, prioritising penetration over speed.
How it fits the system. The thrusting kick of the karate material in the Combat Sports section. Related work in the library: Taekwondo Side Kick and Karate Roundhouse Kick.
Primary muscles
Gluteals, Hip Abductors
Secondary muscles
Quadriceps, Obliques, Adductors
Movement pattern
Lateral Thrust Kick
Equipment
None
Difficulty
Intermediate
How to Perform
- Chamber the knee high and across the body with the hip turned.
- Pivot the support foot so the heel points towards the target.
- Thrust the leg out sideways, driving the hip through and striking with the heel or foot edge.
- Recoil to the chamber and set down in a stable stance.
Coaching Cues
- “Drive the hip in behind the heel.”
- “Body stays in one line at extension.”
- “Recoil before the foot touches the floor.”
Common Mistakes
- Bending sideways at the waist, which reduces power and control.
- Striking with the instep or toes rather than the heel or foot edge.
Progressions & Regressions
Progressions
Add height, then add a step-in, then combine with a following technique.
Regressions
Use a wall or a chair for support and work the chamber and thrust separately.
When to Use It
When to use
Kihon practice, line drills and kumite preparation.
When not to use
Wrist, elbow or shoulder injury.
Programming
3–5 sets of 10–20 repetitions per side with full extension and full retraction.
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