Want to master your first Wushu kick? In this lesson, you'll learn how to perform the Wushu front stretch kick, known in Mandarin as Zheng Ti (Zheng = Straight, Ti = Kick). This is the most basic yet essential Wushu kick and a must-practice in every training session.
Why Learn the Wushu Front Stretch Kick?
- Builds leg flexibility and kicking control
- Forms the foundation for advanced Wushu kicks and jumps
- Helps improve posture, balance, and form discipline
Preparation Before You Kick
Always warm up and stretch thoroughly before practicing any Wushu kicks or jumps. This prevents injury and improves your range of motion.
Recommended warm-up:
- 5–10 minutes of light cardio
- Wushu stretches - static and dynamic
- Front split stretches
How to Perform the Wushu Front Stretch Kick (Zheng Ti)
1. Starting Position
- Stand tall with legs together
- Look straight ahead
- Arms relaxed at your sides
2. Step and Set Position
- Step forward with your left leg
- Open both arms and turn your head to look at your right hand
- Relax wrists so fingers point slightly downward
3. Transition and Posture
- Step forward with your right leg
- Bend elbows and flip palms upward
- Push arms straight ahead, keeping them slightly above shoulder level
- Turn your head forward again
- Legs should now be closed again, ready to kick
4. Kick Execution
- Step forward with your left leg
- Kick your right leg straight up toward your forehead
- Keep your upper body upright and still
- Do not bend your knees or move your arms
- Flex your ankle and aim to see the sole of your shoe at peak height
- Bring the leg down faster than it went up
- Relax the ankle just before the foot touches the ground
Wushu Kicking Routine
- Do 2 sets of 8 kicks (4 per leg)
- Rest briefly, then continue with the inside circle kick
- Gradually build up height and speed as your flexibility improves
Pro Tips for Better Wushu Kicks
- Don’t worry about height; focus on form and control
- Keep your heel on the ground on the supporting leg
- Imagine balancing an apple on your head to avoid leaning or slouching
- Use a mirror or record yourself to check posture
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Bending your knees during the kick
- Lifting your heel off the ground
- Moving your arms or head
- Overextending your ankle
- Leaning back or rounding your back
- Kicking too high too soon
Want to Improve Flexibility?
Try these stretches:
- Wushu Front Stretch Kick Stretch
- Crouched Wushu Stretch
- Side Stretch Kick
- Inside and Outside Circle Kick Warm-ups
Watch and Learn
📹 Wushu Front Stretch Kick (Zheng Ti) Video Tutorial
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Ready to build strong foundations in Wushu? Keep practicing the Zheng Ti and explore more basics on our [Wushu Training Main Page].
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