Turning Kick – Dollyo Chagi

Name and Terminology

Korean Name: Dollyo Chagi (돌려차기) • Dollyo (돌려): Turning • Chagi (차기): Kick This kick is characterised by a circular trajectory, using a hip rotation to deliver power and speed to the target.

Description

The Turning Kick is ideal for attacking an opponent positioned at the side front. It is usually performed with the ball of the foot, instep, or knee, though the toes can also be used if wearing shoes. It is normally executed from the rear foot, though it can also be delivered from the front foot. This kick is divided into low, middle, and high variations.

Target Areas

Ball of the Foot: • Primary: Face, solar plexus, scrotum • Secondary: Armpit, temple, neck Toes: • Same procedure as ball of the foot • Expanded use when wearing shoes, especially for long-distance targets Knee: • Used at very close range • Execution is similar to ball of the foot kick, but with the knee bent at impact Instep: • Targets soft areas: Neck, jaw, lips, abdomen • When wearing shoes, range of use increases due to protection of the instep • Similar execution to ball of the foot but toes are not pointed downward and the knee is bent less • Can be used against opponents directly in front, but generally more effective at a 90° angle

Execution Principles

1. Swing the hip forward to allow the foot to reach the target in an arc. 2. Keep the ball of the foot vertical to the target at the moment of impact. 3. The foot should reach the apex of the arc just before impact, with the toes slightly downward. 4. Toes of the stationary foot should point 45° outward at impact. 5. Keep the kicking leg as straight as possible (no excessive bending). 6. Avoid kicking directly forward; this is not the purpose of this technique. 7. Keep both arms visible while kicking for balance and guard.

Variations

Side Turning Kick – Yop Dollyo Chagi A variation of the turning kick with the advantage of attacking an opponent positioned abreast or in front from a greater distance. • Tools: Ball of the foot, instep • Toes of stationary foot should point 75° outward at impact • Kicking leg remains straight at the moment of contact • Can be low, middle, or high

Technical Notes

• Choose the attacking tool based on distance, target height, and whether footwear is present. • Maintain balance by coordinating hip rotation and knee extension in a single motion. • For maximum power, ensure the hip and stationary foot work together to direct force into the target.