The low kick is a circular kick given that targets either the thigh or the kneecap. It can be executed in several ways: in “whipping” (dry impact with quick return), in “crossing” (you do not try to hit but to cross the leg in force, as if you wanted to take both legs in the strike), or in “slicing” (trying to “cut” the thigh by pressuring the shin against the thigh towards the ground, in a diagonal angle).
Each method has its advantages, and in all cases, it is a very effective kick that can give the attacker a clear advantage if the blow is well delivered.
As it is often done by individuals experienced in combat, one must be extremely wary of the attacker and make sure that confrontation is the best option.
In the worst case, if you have no choice, here are some ways to counter this technique.
Table of Contents
Defense by dodging
The first defense which is by far the most effective, consists simply in dodging the low kick, by doing a backward movement.
Easier said than done! The low kick is a pretty fast kick, so you need a very good gaze to anticipate it.
However, it is the best option if you are skilled enough, as it is better not to have to take such an impact which may make your leg numb.
Generally speaking, dodging is the best option.
In general, you need to be at a certain distance to see the blow coming and have time to dodge. At very close range, this is almost impossible and it may be better to break the distance by striking the attacker so that the blow has less amplitude and thus less power.
After the backward dodge, it is essential to follow up with a technique, preferably by “rebounding” with a blow to the kneecap or popliteal fossa in order to damage the limb with which the attacker seems to be comfortable with.
Defense by attacking
The second defense is very simple and rough: as soon as the aggressor moves, you attack.
So, no matter what the movement is, break the attack with a counterattack. It is the Sen no Sen principle in Karate.
This also requires a good gaze, and to do so, the fight should already be engaged.
If you are not really in an aggressive situation, then the movements of the potential aggressor can be ambiguous.
Just imagine an individual walking towards you, he looks threatening, but in the end he gives you back your phone that you dropped a few meters before. You misinterpret this gesture and smash his genitals.
This is not the best way to thank him!
Hence, if you manage to see the blow coming, you’d better dodge.
Defense by blocking
Finally, the last defense consists of blocking the blow and throwing it back.
This is the least comfortable option for you, as this requires undergoing a very hard impact.
To soften the blow, don’t hit shin to shin, you’d rather try to absorb the blow with the bottom of the shin, before you push it out.
Whatever the situation, this defense should be done with your front leg which is, in any case, the closest to the blow and therefore the one that can be mobilized most quickly.
Finally, finish him off with a downward strike/upward strike sequence.
