Defining the Aerial Defense Technique
The Flying Hooking Kick (Twimyo Golcho Chagi) is a defensive technique specifically employed for blocking the attacking hand or foot while the defender is flying. This kick belongs to the category of foot blocks. The fundamental execution method of the flying version is the same as the hooking kick (Golcho Chagi) except for the flying motion.
Execution Mechanics and Blocking Tool
As with its grounded counterpart, the Flying Hooking Kick utilizes the side instep (Yop Baldung) as the blocking tool. The defensive kick is employed in both low and middle variations. The blocking tool must reach the target in a precise outward curve, which differentiates it from a twisting kick. At the moment of impact, the practitioner must keep the outer tibia facing downward. This defense requires a minimum amount of effort from the defender.
Targets and Strategic Application
The primary targets for the Hooking Kick method are vulnerable joints, specifically the elbow joint and Achilles’ tendons. Strategically, it is advisable to execute the kick at the outside of the attacking hand or foot. If the kick is performed as an inside block, special caution must be exercised, as the opponent may use their opposite hand or foot for an unexpected counter-attack. A significant advantage of this technique is that the kicking foot remains readily available for an instantaneous counter-attack motion.
Training Context and Posture Recovery
The Flying Hooking Kick is incorporated into advanced training methodologies, such as the use of the forging pendulum. In general, flying techniques of the foot are useful for developing speed, balance, and coordination. A key principle for all flying kicks is that the defender must resume a good posture and balance immediately after landing. Drills for this technique involve jumping and landing in stances like the X-stance while simultaneously executing a subsequent block, such as a rising block with an X-fist.