The split kick is an acrobatic wushu technique where you jump from both legs at the same time, spread your legs in the air, and land on both legs. This jump kick is commonly used in the Eagle Claw style of wushu (Ying Quan). There are also variations of the split kick, such as the Split Kick 360, which includes a full rotation.
In this lesson, you will learn how to perform the split kick as practiced in the Eagle Claw style. For more traditional wushu styles, visit the Wushu Main section, and check out the Wushu Video section for demonstrations.
Description: Wushu Split Kick
- Jump up from both legs while swinging your arms overhead.
- As you reach the peak of the jump, kick both legs upward and simultaneously swing your arms down. At this point, your hands should be below hip level, and your feet should be above hip level. Try to complete this motion before reaching the highest point of your jump.
- Quickly bring your legs down and use your arms for balance (move your hands slightly upward).
- Land as softly as possible—on the balls of your feet.
Trainer Advice: Wushu Split Kick
- When you're starting out, the split kick may be easier if you roll through the entire foot before jumping. This allows you to bend your knees slightly and generate more power from your legs.
- As you improve, aim to push off from the balls of your feet for better height and form.
- It’s easier at first to kick your legs up with bent knees and then extend them mid-air. However, the correct form is to kick with straight knees. Either way, make sure your knees are fully extended at the highest point of the jump.
- Stretch your scissor split regularly to improve flexibility.
- Improve your vertical leap with plyometric and reactive strength training.
Related Instructions:
- Scissor Split – Groin Stretch
- Track and Field & Plyometrics
- Wushu Lotus Kick
Videos:
- Wushu Split Kick Videos
- More Wushu Videos
