Lead Head Kick
Kicks · Lead side (Orthodox left, Southpaw right)
High lead roundhouse to the head, usually off a step or switch to load it.
How to throw it
Load the lead leg with a step out or a switch of the feet, then pivot on the base foot and whip the lead shin up and across into the head on a high arc. Because it comes off the front leg you often need the step or switch to generate the height and power, so drive the hip up and turn the shoulders into it. Keep the rear hand tight to your chin and recover your stance the instant you land.
When to use it
Use it as a fast, surprising head kick when the opponent expects a low or body strike, often threading it up the middle or over a dropping guard. The step or switch that loads it can be masked as footwork so the kick arrives without warning.
Common mistakes
- Skipping the step or switch, so the lead leg lacks the load to reach the head with power.
- Dropping the rear hand as you kick, leaving your chin open to a counter over the top.
- Kicking with a bent, chopping motion rather than swinging the shin up and through the target on a full arc.