Basic Techniques

• Performing the flying side kick properly requires a complete understanding of how to perform a basic side kick. If your side kick lacks the correct positioning and technique, learning how to perform the flying side kick will be very difficult. Proper positioning begins with a high lift of the kicking leg. Your knee should be held as high and close to your upper body as possible. From this position, your supporting leg will pivot away from the direction of the kick to allow your hips to rotate. This will drive your kicking foot forward into your target. Once your leg is at its maximum extension, bend your knee and bring it back to chest level before putting your foot down. Do not let you leg drop to the floor instead of retracting your leg. Aside from being sloppy, dropping your leg will create an opening for a retaliatory attack.
  
  

The Jumping Side Kick

• Attaining a high altitude requires an understanding of momentum, as well as physical ability. This comes again in the form of bringing the kicking leg up to your chest before launching the kick. Begin by pulling your kicking leg up forcefully and allowing the momentum of your leg as it moves upwards to assist you while pushing off of the ground with your supporting foot. Be sure to pull your supporting foot upward as well. Using this method, practice the initial takeoff and pull your leg up into a "cocked" position until you can jump a short distance off of the ground. Once you are comfortable with the lifting and jumping technique, thrust your foot outward to complete the kick. Again, be sure to retract your kicking leg before landing. Practice this until you can comfortably perform a jumping side kick.
  
  

Taking Flight

• Using the basic techniques as a guide, incorporate the lifting of your kicking leg into a "cocked" position while running. Practice the technique slowly until you can comfortably time the forward steps with the lifting of your kicking leg, pulling your knee up high and allowing momentum to lift you forward and upward. Thrust out your kicking leg at the height of your ascent and retract it before landing. With practice, you will be able to gain considerable height with your flying kicks.