Rear Catch → Lead Sweep

Intermediate

Rear Catch, Lead Sweep is the essential answer to an incoming kick. Catch it under the rear arm to take control, then sweep the standing leg out from under the opponent.

What this combo trains

This combo drills the catch-and-counter that every Muay Thai fighter needs. You catch the incoming kick under the rear arm to control it and pin your opponent to one leg, then sweep that standing leg with your own lead leg to put them on the floor. It develops defensive timing, control of a caught limb, and the instinct to counter immediately rather than just defending.

Step by step

  1. 1.
    Rear Catch

    Trap the incoming kick under your rear arm, catching it tight to control the leg and take away their balance. Keep them pinned on their standing leg.

  2. 2.
    Lead Sweep

    Sweep the standing leg with your lead leg while their weight is trapped on it. With the caught kick controlling them, the sweep takes them down.

Common mistakes

  • Catching the kick loosely so the opponent recovers the leg before you can sweep.
  • Waiting after the catch instead of sweeping immediately while their balance is committed to one leg.
  • Sweeping without lifting or steering the caught leg, so they simply hop and stay upright.
  • Standing square during the catch, leaving yourself off balance to counter.

Who it suits

An intermediate defensive combo for fighters learning to counter kicks. It works from orthodox or southpaw because the app mirrors every left and right to your stance.

Why it works

The catch and counter is drilled as an essential response: catch the kick, then sweep the standing leg.

Workouts with this combo

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