Kicking Help Please!!

[dlearnhardt]

I need some advice on my basic thai kicks. I am having a difficult time kicking the thai pads as opposed to the hanging bag because of the difference in height. I can get a good hip turn with solid contact on the hanging bag because I can kick lower. But when someone holds the thai pads (which is usually a little higher than my waist level) I can't get any hip turn. I think it is due to poor flexibility. I would have no problem kicking the holder in the waist (not good for the holder) but that extra 6-12 inches in height to reach the pads just isn't working.

Any advice? I find myself trying to kick "up" to the pads which is terrible form and eliminates any power. When I make sure I roll my hips, it just lowers my impact zone too much.

If it is flexibility (side split type of flexibility), does anyone have any suggestions? Your help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

[retired]

First try to train with someone your same height

Or if the pad man is taller (i know about this being 6'4) get him to lean his weight onto the back leg which is bent and facing to the side with his front leg straight and pointed forward (his front leg is out of way when in this position as apposed to his knee sticking out) then he twists his waist from left to right for each kick & he should be able to get lower in this stance.

If his back leg aches he can always switch stances as it doesn't effect the pads & can act as an exercise for him.

Also: on the pads your angles will vary slightlly from the bag but if the pad man is leaning the pads to much tell him to pull them back (this is usually a sign of weak or tired arms), if you or your partner get's into the habit of lowering the pads or gloves after combo's or fatigue your body & mind gets customised into relaxing & stopping when tired which is what happens to a lot of fighters when they get tired in a fight in that they lower their guard and WHAM.


The pad man should get as much exercise out of holding the pads as hitting them if done correctlly.

[Eddie]

PADS

Have them take a Knee or stoop down at a lower angle. I know what your talking about, when I train with Pads my intent is to kick the thighs so make sure your partner understands that is your target and that is what you want to train for, and use the hvy bag for the ribs or anything higher.