Quote:
Originally posted by OneStrike
Yeah, that's one way to do it, I guess. Personally I think it's a fairly low percentage move, and you're more likely to avoid the kick by moving back. Although it leaves you with less options for the counter, it also means less chance of misjudging the distance and getting KTFO. You can also try to hammer the back of their leg if they come all the way past.
Stop kicks are great, if you can get the timing right. They're commonly used in Muay Thai, too...My instructor has a way of nailing you with a front kick to the thigh when you're kicking with the rear leg that makes you think twice about throwing leg kicks cold.
it's not low %. if you step in the power of the kick is reduced. That is the nature of an arcing kick. even if you don't break their balance, you will receive less damage from the kick - but you will be there to recieve their punches, knees and elbows. Those can be dealt with though. moving back does get you out of the way, but puts you at no advantage, unless you intend on running away.
I think it takes a *lot* of practice to get the stop kick working as a high percentage move against a full power round kick, though. If you're just a little to late you'll end up with your leg being forced back into you and you'll land on your backside, which is unpleasant in sparring and seriously bad news on the street. You have to time it just right. It takes less time to get used to shin blocking, but then you're going to have to condition your shins which takes time...So it all evens out, I guess.
That's the very reason I'd rather step in or shin block.