Jabs and Side-Kick


  • Start Position:
    • Begin in a front-facing fighting stance with the feet comfortably apart and the knees slightly bent.
    • Maintain an upright posture with balanced body weight, relaxed shoulders and gently engaged abdominal muscles.
    • Raise both fists into the Defense Position near the face, keeping the elbows comfortably bent.
    • Prepare to perform punches toward the front and left side, followed by a controlled left side kick.
  • Description:
    • Jabs and Side-Kick combines forward punching with a change in punching direction and a side kick.
    • Beginning in a front-facing fighting stance, perform four alternating front jabs, starting with the right hand.
    • Follow with one cross jab directed toward the left side, then perform one left side kick.
    • This combination emphasizes coordination, balance, cardiovascular conditioning and controlled movements toward different directions.
  • Sequence:
    1. Step 1 - Fighting Stance: Begin facing forward in a balanced fighting stance with both fists near the face in the Defense Position.
    2. Step 2 - Four Front Jabs: Perform four alternating jabs toward the front, beginning with the right hand and continuing left, right and left. Retract each fist toward the Defense Position after punching.
    3. Step 3 - Cross Jab to the Left: Direct one controlled cross jab toward an imaginary target on the left side. Allow the torso and feet to adjust naturally while maintaining balance, then return the punching hand toward the Defense Position.
    4. Step 4 - Left Side Kick: Transfer body weight onto the right leg and raise the left knee. Extend the left leg into a controlled side kick toward the left, allowing the supporting foot to pivot or reposition as needed. Retract the leg and return to a balanced fighting stance before repeating the combination.
  • Precautions:
    • During repeated jabs, maintain wrist alignment and avoid snapping or forcefully locking the elbows. Keep the shoulders relaxed.
    • When directing the cross jab toward the left, allow the feet and hips to reposition naturally. Avoid twisting the knees against firmly planted feet.
    • During the left side kick, avoid forcefully locking the kicking knee. Keep the kick at a comfortable height, generally no higher than thigh level.
    • Allow the right supporting foot to pivot or reposition during the side kick. Maintain balance and avoid excessive sideways leaning.
  • Notes:
    • Beginner variation: Perform the cross jab with a smaller range of motion and substitute a controlled left knee lift for the side kick.
    • Lower-intensity variation: Use slower punches and a low side kick, allowing additional time to regain balance between movements.
    • Optional opposite-side variation: Begin the alternating jabs with the left hand, direct the cross jab toward the right and finish with a right side kick.
    • Teaching suggestion: Practice the change in punching direction separately before introducing the side kick. The original sequence does not specify which hand performs the cross jab, so either hand may be used with appropriate foot positioning.
    • For additional technique information, see Cardio Kickboxing Basics.