(Approx 2 minute 26 second read)

We all know some extraordinary kickers who would undoubtedly advocate for using their kicks in many self-defense scenarios. However, the reality is that most people do not possess such exceptional kicking abilities.
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Recently, I observed an instructor teaching ‘ura mawashi geri’ (reverse roundhouse kick) as a self-defense technique against a grab. While he was clearly skilled in executing this kick, its practicality as a self-defense technique is questionable.
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When teaching self-defense, techniques must be effective for everyone, not just a select few. Otherwise, they are impractical. Decades ago, I competed in martial arts and favored this technique due to my flexibility – something I no longer possess.
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This highlights the importance of considering individual abilities when teaching self-defense. The technique must work universally. In real-life situations, there are no second chances. More effective methods exist for dealing with someone grabbing your clothing than a reverse roundhouse kick to the head, even if the response was executed quickly as the instructor commented.
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In the controlled environment of a dojo with a skilled instructor and a compliant attacker, many techniques appear to work. However, such scenarios lack realism. An attacker will not simply stand still, waiting for a perfect technique.
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Yes, I understand demonstrations have their place, but let’s be realistic. The reverse roundhouse kick is not a reliable self-defense technique and should not be taught as one. Even if the instructor claims it has worked for him outside the dojo, it needs to be consistently effective for all students. Perhaps he was just showing off.
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I am passionate about context and believe techniques should fit the scenario. Teaching this as a self-defense response is a poor decision.
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Let’s consider a kick from less than arm’s length away. Why use a kick – a medium to long-range weapon – when your hands are available? Standing on one leg compromises your balance, increasing your vulnerability. Furthermore, the environment, clothing, and footwear could seriously compromise your ability to perform such a kick.
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Raising one leg to kick while being grabbed is risky. Kicks have their place but are situation-dependent. In close-range self-defense, kicks should be low and delivered at the right moment. If someone grabs you, they will try to unbalance you, and you need to sense this before you implement any kick.
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Hand techniques should be the primary response in close-range self-defense, with kicks used to disrupt and damage, aiding in escape. The chaotic nature of close-range self-defense often makes kicking impractical due to the lack of space and the need for stability and mobility.
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Many real confrontations start at conversation range, too close for effective kicks. Maintaining mobility and stability is crucial, making it generally inappropriate to lift a foot off the ground. However, low kicks to shins or stamps to feet can be effective in creating space to escape.
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While kicks can be useful, they should not be the primary method, especially not a reverse roundhouse kick to the head from a grab. The instructor defended his technique by mentioning kicks to the legs as an option, which is more reasonable. However, the initial kick remains unacceptable for self-defense. Referencing talented kickers from the past does not change the fact that only a few can effectively use this kick. Most people, regardless of practice, will not achieve this level of skill.
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Sports karate techniques can of course be useful, but when teaching self-defense, it is essential to prioritize realism and ensure techniques are applicable to all students, not just those with a gifted ability.