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Bent Leg Side Kick

Bent Leg Side Kick demonstration

Watch the demo so setup and tempo are clear before you follow the step-by-step cues.

Bent Leg Side Kick exercise demonstration for Hips, Body weight

Performing the: A Step-by-Step Tutorial Bent Leg Side Kick

Work through the cues in order so setup, bracing, and reps stay consistent before you add load.

  • Shift your weight onto your right foot and lift your left knee until it's at hip height, bent at a 90-degree angle.
  • Keeping your knee bent, perform a side kick by extending your left leg out to the side as far as you can without compromising your balance.
  • Hold the position for a moment, then return your left leg to the starting position, keeping your knee raised.
  • Repeat these steps for the desired number of repetitions, then switch legs and perform the same steps with your right leg.

Tips for Performing Bent Leg Side Kick

Form reminders that keep range of motion and control in check once the basic pattern feels stable.

  • Controlled Movement: Perform the exercise in a controlled manner. Avoid swift or jerky movements as they can strain your muscles and joints. Instead, focus on the quality of the movement, ensuring that your muscles are fully engaged throughout the exercise.
  • Core Engagement: Engage your core throughout the exercise. This not only helps in maintaining balance but also enhances the effectiveness of the exercise. A common mistake is to relax the core, which can lead to a loss of balance and reduce the effectiveness of the exercise.
  • Don't Overextend: Avoid kicking too high or overextending your leg. This can lead to

Can beginners do the Bent Leg Side Kick?

A short framing note on whether this pattern suits newer lifters before you load it heavily.

Yes, beginners can perform the Bent Leg Side Kick exercise. It is a relatively simple exercise that targets the glutes, thighs, and core. However, like with any exercise, it's important to start with a lower intensity and gradually increase as strength and flexibility improve. It's also crucial to maintain proper form to avoid injury. If there is any pain or discomfort, it's best to stop and consult with a fitness professional or a healthcare provider.

What are common variations of the Bent Leg Side Kick?

Compare these progressions when the main pattern is solid or you need a different stimulus with similar equipment.

  • The Roundhouse Kick, where the kicker swings their leg around in a semi-circular motion, striking with the lower shin or foot.
  • The Hook Kick, a kick in which the practitioner extends their leg out to the side of the body, and then hooks the leg back to strike the target with the heel.
  • The Spinning Side Kick, a variation where the kicker turns their body around before delivering a powerful side kick.
  • The Axe Kick, which involves raising the leg as high as possible, and then bringing the heel down on the opponent like an axe chopping wood.