In this lesson, you will learn how to perform a Wushu Side Kick. In Mandarin Chinese, this is called "Ce Shuai Tui". The side kick is one of the most basic kicks and should be part of your Wushu warm-up routine.
What’s typical about the side kick in Wushu Taolu (forms) is that both arms are extended, and it’s acceptable to lean back slightly. In combat sports like Muay Thai or Sanda, the side kick is executed differently.
Find more Wushu instructions at Wushu Main.
Execution
- Stand upright with your hands at your sides.
- Step forward with your left foot and slightly lift your arms to the sides.
- Then step forward with your right leg and let your arms drop.
- Cross your arms, make a big circular motion, and cross them again. Place your forearms over each other (some athletes only cross their wrists).
- Watch your right hand as you open your arms.
- Your left hand ends up over the right (forearm over forearm), fingers pointing up. Look to the left.
At this point, your legs are crossed, your arms are crossed, and you're looking to the left. Hold this position for about one second.
- Lift your left knee and kick with your left leg.
- Twist on your standing foot and lean back slightly. Make sure to keep looking forward.
- As you kick, fully extend your arms. Both hands should form palms (zhang):
- The right hand points upward
- The left hand points to the right
Hold the final position for about one second.
- Then let your kicking leg fall. In Wushu Taolu, you don’t have to pull your knee back toward your chest after the kick. However, in Sanda, that's important to avoid having your kick caught by your opponent.
Advice
- Stretch your splits regularly.
- Exercise idea: Hold onto a chair and do 10 to 20 slow side kicks.
- Practice both the left and right side kicks.
- For isometric strength, try holding each side kick for a few seconds.
Suggestions
- Straight Wushu Stretch Kick
- Ce Ti – Wushu Side Stretch Kick
- Wushu Back Sweep
Videos / Images
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