Spinning Back Kick
- Striking
- Kicks
- advanced
- Orthodox stance
- 4 steps
A spinning thrust kick that drives the heel straight back into the target like a mule kick. Also known as the Spinning side kick or the Back thrust. Here is the exact breakdown from the DARCE app: 4 steps, the details that make it work, and the mistakes to avoid.
When to use it
Use the spinning back kick to the body when the opponent rushes in on a straight line or circles toward your rear side. A jab or a feint that makes them plant their feet sets it up. Keep it rare so it stays a surprise.
Step by step
- 01
Set your stance
Square enough to begin turning.
- 02
Turn and spot
Step across, turn your back to the target and look over your shoulder to spot it before kicking.
- 03
Thrust the heel back
Drive the rear leg straight back into the target with the heel as the spin unwinds, like a horse bucking.
- 04
Retract and reset
Continue the rotation back to face your opponent in your stance.
Key details
- Look over your shoulder and spot the target before committing the leg.
- Thrust straight back through the target. Do not swing it round.
- Finish the spin facing your opponent, not turned away.
Common mistakes
- Spinning blind without spotting the target.
- Swinging the leg in an arc instead of thrusting.
- Over-rotating and giving up your back.
Common counters
Opponents who read the turn step in and take your back, or step off the line and counter as you finish. A teep or straight punch lands while your back is turned. Spot the target before the leg goes.
How to drill it
Your partner holds a kick shield against their body and steps forward on your call. Turn, spot and drive the heel into the shield, finishing square to them in your stance. Do three sets of ten, slow first, then at speed.
Related techniques
- Rear Roundhouse KickStrikingA whipping rear-leg kick that drives the shin through the target via full hip rotation.
- Switch KickStrikingA lead-leg roundhouse set up by a quick stance switch to generate rear-leg power.
- Teep (Push Kick)StrikingA straight push-kick with the lead leg that controls distance and stops forward pressure.
- Side KickStrikingA linear thrust kick driving the heel straight into the target with the body bladed sideways.
- Axe KickStrikingA kick that swings the leg high and drops the heel straight down onto the head or collarbone.
- Spinning Hook KickStrikingA spinning kick that whips the heel horizontally across the target at head height.
Train it with the AI coach