Also called Naeryo chagi, Kakato otoshi, Heel drop
The axe kick lifts a nearly straight leg high above the opponent's guard, then drives the heel straight down onto the face, collarbone or chest. Because it lands over the top of a high guard, taekwondo fighters use it to score against taller opponents, and Andy Hug made it famous in K-1.
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How to do it
- 1Lift the kicking leg high, straight up or in a small arc from the outside or inside.
- 2Keep the knee almost straight and the toes pulled back.
- 3At the top, above the opponent's guard, drive the heel straight down.
- 4In training, aim the heel at the collarbone or chest, or at a pad.
- 5Land in stance with your guard up, without letting the leg pull you forward.
- Bending the knee on the way up, which shortens the kick and gives it away.
- Throwing it from too close, so the calf lands instead of the heel.
- Leaning back so far that you fall away after the kick.
Safety: Warm up the hamstrings first, aim at pads rather than a partner's head, and keep the heel drop controlled in partner drills.
Drills
Your partner holds a kick shield flat at chest height; lift and chop down onto it with the heel, ten reps per leg.
Legends known for it
1977–2000
We teach it in Traditional Striking. A coach will fix the details you can't see yourself. Join now and book your first class for $20, paid online.
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