Also called Ura-mawashi geri, Huryeo chagi, Revers
The hook kick extends the leg just past the side of the opponent's head, then snaps the heel back into it from an angle the guard does not cover. Karate calls it ura-mawashi geri; savate's version is the revers. With a full spin first, it becomes the spinning hook kick: more speed, more risk.
Satori's coaches are filming every technique, full speed and slow motion from two angles. Until it's up, the diagram shows the movement step by step.
How to do it
- 1Lift the lead knee as if for a side kick, turning your hips side-on.
- 2Extend the leg slightly past the side of the opponent's head.
- 3Bend the knee sharply to snap the heel back into the target.
- 4Keep your guard up and your upper body over the standing leg.
- 5Re-chamber and set the foot down; for the spinning version, turn and spot the target first.
- Swinging the leg wide from the start, which telegraphs the kick.
- Aiming straight at the head, so the heel has no room to hook back.
- Dropping your hands as you lean away.
Safety: Kick the mitt, not the partner, and keep spinning hook kicks out of partner drills until your coach approves, because the heel lands hard and fast.
Drills
Your partner holds a focus mitt beside their head; throw ten lead-leg hook kicks each side, and add the spinning version only once the heel lands cleanly.
Legends known for it
1977–2000
2014–nowWe 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.
Related techniques
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The side kick thrusts the leg out sideways and strikes with the heel or outer edge of the foot. With the hips turned side-on it has long reach and…
1966–1983The spinning back kick turns your back to the opponent and drives the heel straight back into their body. The rotation and body weight go behind a…
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.…
