Do you feint before using the Thigh Kick?

**Aaron04** · 08-28-2006, 09:40 PM

I was wondering what type (if any) of feints/fakes or progressive indirect attacks you like to use to set up the Thai boxing/Savate thigh kick. I have found the kick less effective lately because most people are so familiar with it. Does anyone have a particularily effective "setup shot" to facilitate the thigh kick? Any footwork you find useful to set up this kick would be appreciated as well.

Thanks

**Paco** · 08-29-2006, 09:08 AM

Do a shuffle step, but instead of throwing your kick, get in close and do a backfist as your foot is landing. Not a kick, but the setup is lovely.

**jeffmichaels** · 08-31-2006, 12:01 PM

I think you need to either set out to get an outside angle on the thigh to release the kick, or cover a mini-side-shuffle with a jab/cross. Classical thai boxers never needed to worry about single or double leg takedowns from western wrestling. But in mma fights, a thai kick with no set up is an invitation to the shot.

**EmptyneSs** · 08-31-2006, 11:17 PM

you usually have to set it up. you have to try to distract them with boxing up so you can slip in the kick. dont ever just try to walk up to the opponent and throw the kick, try to always set it up with something else.

i like to use the kick as a counter to jabs as well. you can lure them into moving into your kick by stepping laterally and waiting for them to jab at you.

**Tim McFatridge** · 09-01-2006, 08:45 AM

Yes...agree to all. You must set the kick up or it will be too easy for your opponent to read. I like to do as Emptyness said use your boxing to stick it in there. If I am throwing a rear leg thai kick I like to step left as I throw a left hook to the head(actually the hook is a fake and I usually hit their hands) and deliver a nice thai kick to the front or side of the thigh. Also if I am throwing a lead leg thai skip kick I like to use my jab to cover it up a bit so they do not see it coming. As you throw the jab you set for the kick as you are bringing the jab back you are delivering the kick. Also like Emptyness said use your kicks as a defense against there punches. Some really good stop kicks in Thai Boxing.