Originally Posted by
SanHeChuan
I pivot.
When you step into you don't get enough rotation of the foot, unless you’re freakishly flexible in the knee. And if you don't get enough rotation you place undue torque on your knee that can lead to problems.
My current teacher has us rotate our foot 180 degrees, which is I am not use to. I usually only turn ~135+ degrees, but I also usually pull my kick, so I don't need full rotation in those cases.
I have never had any balance problems with that method.
I also don't like the step in because it's a obvious visual "tell" for what your about to do, giving a perceptive opponent more time to set their defense and counter.
The step in...well... angle step, cuz you don't step straight in - has a dual purpose. One is to aid with power in the kick. The other - And MK mentioned it already, somewhat - is to avoid a counter. MK said that his favorite counter to the roundhouse was the cross. That is a devastating counter and you are wide open for it if you don't step offline when you throw the kick.
Also remember that the roundhouse, like anyother power technique, needs to be set up. Whether you step or pivot, any idiot can counter it if you throw the kick by itself. the step should be used in conjunction with something to set it up.
Last edited by SevenStar; 02-12-2008 at 09:56 AM.
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