What is axe kick in korean?
The axe kick (naeryeo chagi) is one of the most powerful kicking techniques in taekwondo and Korean martial arts. It involves raising the leg straight up towards the target, then forcefully bringing it down in a chopping motion with the heel pointed downward.
In Korean, "chagi" refers to kicks in general. The different kicks have descriptive names based on their form – for example, the axe kick is called naeryeo chagi, the turning kick is dollyeo chagi, and the back kick is dwi chagi. Understanding these Korean kick names is useful for following taekwondo terminology and instructions.
What does "chagi" mean in Korean?
The Korean word "chagi" refers to a kick or kicking movement in martial arts like taekwondo. It is derived from the verb "chada" meaning "to kick".
Taekwondo is often translated as "the way of kicking and punching" – with "tae" meaning to kick or kicking in Korean. This highlights the significance of kicks and kicking techniques in this martial art.
There are many different types of kicks (chagi) practiced in taekwondo including:
- Axe kick (naeryeo chagi)
- Turning kick (dollyeo chagi)
- Back kick (dwi chagi)
- Rising kick (cha olligi)
- Jumping kick (twimyo chagi)
- Spinning hook kick (dolgae chagi)
Kicks are executed to various target heights and with the leg straightened or bent. Advanced kicks involve jumping and spinning for power and unpredictability.
Understanding common Korean terminology
Some other common Korean terminologies in taekwondo include:
- Dojang – training hall
- Gyeorugi – sparring
- Poomsae – forms/patterns
- Dobok – uniform
- Charyeot – attention
- Shijak – begin
- Kalryeo – stop
- Kihap – yell
Learning these terms will allow you to better understand taekwondo instruction and commands during class.
How the axe kick is executed
The axe kick requires good flexibility and control to raise the leg high up towards the target before swinging it straight down.
To perform it:
- Raise your leg straight up, lifting the knee as high as possible.
- Swing the leg straight down in a chopping motion.
- Keep your heel pointed downward as it strikes the target.
- Aim for the head, collarbone, shoulder, or chest areas.
As the leg comes down, shift your body weight into the kick to transfer power through your heel. The downward swing resembles the motion of an axe, hence the name.
Proper technique is crucial – the axe kick can generate tremendous striking force.
Advanced kicking techniques
Taekwondo features an array of advanced kicks that utilize momentum from spinning or jumping to generate greater power and unpredictability. Popular examples include:
- 540 kick – jump and spin 540 degrees to kick with the back leg
- Jumping back kick – spring upwards while kicking backwards
- Spinning hook kick – pivot the body and whip the leg around
These advanced kicks require strength, flexibility, timing, and practice to execute correctly. They exemplify the dynamic kicking focus of taekwondo.
In summary, understanding Korean kick names like "chagi" sheds light on the core role of diverse kicking techniques within taekwondo. From the foundational front kick to the flashy 540 spin kick, mastering "chagi" skills represents an integral part of taekwondo training.