Are kicks really worth it?

Splinter · 05-12-2006

I've seen a lot of fighters go down as a result of misjudging the right time to use a kick. My impression is however, that if you can pull off a successful dead on kick (which hardly ever happens) you're bound to do a lot of damage.

So, is the trade off worth it? How many of you guys employ kicks in your style, and do you use it often?

rogue · 05-12-2006

If you know how to do it, then yes, kicks are definitely worth it. All to often though I see new fighters just trying to throw it into their regime. That isn't how it works.

If you are going to be using kicks, you need to master them, otherwise you leave yourself wide open, vulnerable, and off balance if you miss.

Ensicon · 05-12-2006

Kicks are definately worth it if you ask me, the problem however -as you stated yourself- that it involves a great risk. I'd say you should only use kicks if you're 100% sure of a hit.

Bishop · 05-17-2006

It's a high risk, high reward factor. Many times I don't see a lot of MMA fighters employing kicks unless they are 100% sure that they will connect. And many times, that rare chance is never available.

When you kick, and you miss, you leave your entire body vulnerable, not to mention the fact that you are off balance. That's why those that do kick, do "suicide" kicks in which they land on the ground, flat, on their bodies, as to not leave themselves open if they miss.

Splinter · 05-21-2006

After doing some research and watching some fights, I've concluded that a majority of the KO's are a direct result from a kick.

That's a good point bishop, regarding the suicide kick. Is there a particular art form that specializes in that?

Link · 06-05-2006

Personally, I suck at kicks.
I don't really use them.

You're all right though... huge risk... huge reward.

Like you splinter, I'd love to hear a suggestiopn for a from to concentrate on to improve.

The MMA Guys · 09-18-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ensicon

Kicks are definately worth it if you ask me, the problem however -as you stated yourself- that it involves a great risk. I'd say you should only use kicks if you're 100% sure of a hit.

True...If you have good kicks, use them. Otherwise you'll be in trouble if you attempt a bad kick.

Jason · 09-18-2006

I would use it on a case by case basis.

For example, if I was fighting a guy that lacks good takedowns or doesn't really go for them then I would use the leg kicks. If I was fighting a great wrestler like Coleman or Kerr, I would not even bother because you could pretty much guaranty that you are going to end up on your back getting blasted.

MuayThai4Life · 12-22-2006

The problem most MMA fighters have with kicking is they are not setting them up at all. your inside leg kick is probably the most utilized kick i've seen in MMA today and people are always just throwing it out. setting them up with punches and pushes will make even a missed kick (which is rare with the right set ups) cause an opponent to think twice about rushing in. Kicks are vastely under used in my oppinion

grawl · 12-22-2006

just ask cro cop if he thinks they are worth it