MMA Kicks

CHECKED IN. WORKED OUT. • CIWO

MMA Kicks

Learn the mechanics behind common MMA kicks with an emphasis on balance, chambering, rotation, controlled contact and safe practice.

What You'll Learn

• Roundhouse kick

• Front kick and push kick

• Side kick

• Low kick mechanics

• Kick setup, recovery and balance

CIWO Technique Guide Format

Individual technique articles in this section will break movements down into starting position, step-by-step technique, coaching cues, common mistakes, beginner tips, safety notes and related techniques.

Back to MMA & Combat Training

Train Safely

Combat-sport techniques should be practiced in a controlled training environment. Work with a qualified coach or instructor, use appropriate protective equipment, control contact during drills, and tap early during submission practice.

FITNESS NEVER TAKES A VACATION.

CHECKED IN. WORKED OUT. • MMA & COMBAT TRAINING

Kick Techniques

MMA Striking

Outside Leg Kick: Step-by-Step MMA Kicks Guide

Checked In. Worked Out. Editorial Team / September 22, 2026

Learn the outside leg kick with six clear steps, real-athlete visuals, technique cues, common mistakes and safe pad-work guidance.

MMA Striking

Lead Leg Front Kick: Step-by-Step MMA Kicking Technique

Checked In. Worked Out. Editorial Team / September 5, 2026

Learn the Lead Leg Front Kick with step-by-step MMA kicking instructions covering stance, chamber, extension, balance, recovery, coaching cues, common mistakes and beginner drills.

Technique Development and Drilling

MMA Kicks should first be practiced slowly enough to maintain stance, balance, guard and a controlled return to position. Speed and power are useful only when the mechanics remain repeatable.

Beginner progression

Start with shadowboxing or a cooperative technical drill. Build accuracy before adding a heavy bag, pads or live resistance. Increase speed gradually and reset after every repetition rather than allowing fatigue to turn the drill into uncontrolled movement.

Defense after the strike

Do not treat the strike as finished at contact. Recover the hand or leg, restore the guard, regain stance and be prepared to move, defend or continue the combination. That recovery is part of the technique.

Common training errors

Typical problems include overcommitting the body, dropping the opposite hand, losing the stance, telegraphing the attack and chasing power before accuracy. Record short practice rounds when possible so you can review posture and recovery.

Safety

Use appropriate gloves, wraps, pads and supervision for contact work. Technical practice should be controlled; hard sparring is not required to learn mechanics and carries substantially more injury risk.

Continue with the CIWO MMA & Combat Training hub and MMA Striking library.