3 ways to check low kicks smarter

Many fighters make the mistake of trying to check a low kick only when the leg is already about to hit them. But at that moment, you're essentially too late. Successfully defending low kicks doesn’t start with the block itself — it starts with anticipation. Timing is crucial: you must learn to read your opponent’s movement. Signals like shoulder rotation, weight shifting, or the opponent’s gaze drifting toward your legs often reveal an incoming kick. By recognizing these cues early, you can lift your shin in time and create the correct angle to neutralize the impact.

A well-timed check doesn’t just stop the kick — it discourages your opponent from trying again. If you react too late, you’ll still absorb the force, with all the consequences that follow.

Too much focus on power, not enough on technique

Many beginners think you should “stop” a low kick with brute force, but that’s a misconception. A proper check relies on position, timing, and angle — not power. If you throw your leg upward too aggressively without control, you’ll quickly lose balance. This makes you vulnerable to follow-up attacks.

An effective check is placed at roughly a 45-degree angle, using the outside of your shin. Your goal isn’t bone-on-bone blocking, but redirecting the attack without hurting yourself. Power is used for counters, not defensive checks. Focus on technical refinement rather than force, and you’ll not only take less damage but fight more efficiently.

Not resetting your legs? You’re asking for trouble

After checking a low kick, many fighters remain stuck in an unstable position. This is a serious mistake. If you don’t immediately return your foot to the correct stance after a check, you unintentionally give up space or freeze — both of which are dangerous.

You must always reset your legs right away: back into your fighting stance with your weight evenly distributed. This ensures you’re instantly ready for a counter or for the next defensive move. In dynamic sports like kickboxing and MMA, standing still is the same as losing. The power isn’t only in the check, but in what you do afterwards. A good reset makes you threatening and safe again.

FAQ – What is the correct leg position for checking low kicks?

An effective leg position when checking low kicks:

• Lift your leg with a slightly bent knee
• Rotate your hip outward to expose the outside of your shin
• Keep your foot relaxed but controlled (don’t let it dangle)
• Land back in balance, immediately ready to move or attack

Pro tip: practice this in slow-motion drills to build muscle memory.

Why good shin guards are essential when learning to check

If you’re serious about learning to check low kicks, good shin guards are not a luxury — they’re a necessity. Especially in the early stages, you can injure yourself significantly if you repeatedly try to block kicks without proper protection. Shin guards not only protect your bones from bruising and impact, but also help you train with more confidence.

If you train without proper protection, your body will instinctively pull back or hesitate, which harms your technique. A good pair of shin guards offers solid padding in the right places and fits securely around your leg without slipping.

At Fightstyle.nl, you’ll find high-quality shin guards for every level — from beginners to advanced fighters who want to train technically without injuries. Invest in the right gear, because injury-free training = consistent training.