Should I Kick In Self-Defense?

After watching the recent mixed martial arts match between Luke Rockhold and Michael Bisping, I was reminded of how powerful a set of techniques kicks can be.  The leg is much stronger than the arms, so kicks are one of the most powerful techniques in the striking arts.  The question is should you use kicks in a self-defense situation.

I come down very strongly on the “no” side of this question.  Even though my base art was a powerful kicking art in Taekwondo, kicks have limitations in self-defense situations because of the bad position that they can put you in.  While a powerful thrown kick can result in someone being knocked out or seriously dazed, the risk is often not worth the reward.

The biggest risk with kicks is being taken off your feet.  In general, the best self-defense posture is to remain on your feet and allow for quick escape.  Remember the goal is always to get away not to win.

I have a fairly solid ground game after training in Judo and BJJ but I will not willingly go to the ground in self-defense unless I am certain that I am only dealing with one attacker.  Being on the ground makes it easier to be kicked in the head by a second attacker.

Kicks are also slower than hand strikes and leave you vulnerable on the counter attack.  About the only kick that I like for self-defense is the side kick to the knee to immobilize an attacker.  Otherwise, if  you are going to use your leg, knee the attacker instead.

Kicks are fine for sparring and mixed martial arts.  The referee is not going to let a second person kick you in the head.  In self-defense, try to stay on your feet and leave the kicks alone.

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