Skip to main content

ជើងចាក់

Keng Chak (Axe Kick)

Difficulty: AdvancedAll Strikes

The axe kick raises the leg high and brings it crashing down onto the opponent's head, shoulder, or collarbone. It uses gravity and the dropping weight of the leg for power, creating a chopping effect that is difficult to defend conventionally.

Steps

  1. Raise the kicking leg straight up in front of you, reaching maximum height with the leg extended.
  2. At the top of the arc, drive the heel downward forcefully, targeting the opponent's collarbone, shoulder, or head.
  3. Pull the leg back toward you as you strike down, creating a hooking effect with the heel.
  4. Return the foot to the ground and immediately reset your stance.

Key Points

  • Flexibility is essential — you must be able to raise the leg above the opponent's head height.
  • The power comes from the drop and pull-back, not from muscling the leg down.
  • It is most effective against opponents with a low or forward-leaning guard.

Common Mistakes

  • Not raising the leg high enough, resulting in the kick landing on the guard rather than over it.
  • Losing balance on the standing leg during the high raise, making the technique awkward and weak.
  • Telegraphing by winding up or pausing at the top of the arc.

Targets

  • Collarbone
  • Shoulder
  • Top of head
  • Face
  • Nose

Related Content

Last updated: August 2026