Mastering Front Kick Combos in MMA: Techniques and Strategies
Effective combinations that include front kicks are crucial in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), offering both striking advantages and opportunities to set up takedowns. Here, we'll explore some of the best front kick combos, provide detailed instruction, and offer tips for practicing these techniques.
Common Front Kick Combos in MMA
The use of front kicks in MMA can create distance, disrupt rhythm, and open up opportunities for follow-up strikes or takedowns. Here's a look at seven of the most effective front kick combos:
1. Front Kick - Jab
Action: Start with a front kick to create distance, disrupt your opponent's rhythm, then follow up immediately with a quick jab.
Purpose: The front kick keeps your opponent at bay, while the jab takes advantage of their reaction.
2. Front Kick - Cross
Action: Use a front kick to gauge distance, then follow with a powerful cross (right for orthodox fighters, left for southpaws).
Purpose: The front kick helps set up the cross by keeping your opponent off balance.
3. Front Kick - Hook
Action: After landing a front kick, pivot and throw a hook (left for orthodox fighters, right for southpaws).
Purpose: The front kick creates an opening for the hook, especially if your opponent leans back.
4. Front Kick - Low Kick
Action: Throw a front kick to the body, then immediately transition to a low kick to the lead leg.
Purpose: This combo targets different levels and can disrupt your opponent's balance.
5. Front Kick - Teep Kick
Action: Start with a front kick, then quickly follow with a teep kick (pushing kick) to keep your opponent at a distance.
Purpose: This maintains range while keeping pressure on your opponent.
6. Front Kick - Overhand Right
Action: Use a front kick to create space, then throw an overhand right as your opponent reacts.
Purpose: The front kick draws your opponent's guard up, making them vulnerable to the overhand.
7. Front Kick - Takedown
Action: After landing a front kick, close the distance and transition into a takedown.
Purpose: The kick disrupts your opponent's stance, making it easier to take them down.
Practicing Front Kick Combos
To effectively incorporate front kicks into your MMA striking game, focus on these key areas:
Focus on Timing
PRACTICE THE TIMING OF YOUR COMBINATIONS TO ENSURE SMOOTH TRANSITIONS.
Incorporate Footwork
INCORPORATE FOOTWORK TO MAINTAIN DISTANCE AND ANGLE AFTER EACH STRIKE.
Shadowboxing
USE SHADOWBOXING TO DEVELOP FLUENCY IN YOUR COMBOS BEFORE APPLYING THEM IN SPARRING.
Drill with a Partner
WORK WITH A PARTNER TO PRACTICE THESE COMBOS IN A CONTROLLED ENVIRONMENT.
Adapting to Your Opponent's Style
MIX THESE COMBINATIONS AND ADAPT TO YOUR OPPONENT'S STYLE TO EFFECTIVELY INTEGRATE FRONT KICKS INTO YOUR MMA STRIKING GAME.
By delving into the fundamental techniques and practice tips provided, you can elevate your MMA game and become a more effective front kick artist in the striking arena.