The Hook Kick (sometimes called Heel Kick)  can be regarded as the opposite of the Roundhouse Lick because it uses the heel or sole of the foot as the striking area rather than the top or ball of the foot as in the roundhouse kick.  It is basically the reverse action of the Roundhouse.

It is not an easy kick to master as you need good flexibility especially in your hips and is considered a very high level technique.

The Hook Kick is predominantly used as a head kick and when mastered is fast, extremely powerful and can result in a knockout technique against your opponent. It can be used from the rear or front leg in competition sparring.

The downside and weakness lies in the fact that if it is not executed correctly with good expert timing, you are at danger of having your supporting leg swept from under you leaving you in a heap on the floor!

Step One

• Assume a fighting stance (left stance to use rear leg)
• Raise rear leg forward in front of body
• Knee is raised as high as possible into chamber position

Step Two

• As you raise the knee, start to pivot base foot through 180 °
• Continue until heel is pointing toward your target
• Keep your arms and fists raised to protect body and face
• In this particular instance we will assume a left fighting stance and use the rear leg for ease of practice. When proficient in the technique we can use the front leg.