[thebigbadV]

Hi guys, i know there was a thread about this awhile back but i cant seem to find it using the search function. anyways, a friend and i were in the gym the other day hittin the bags. When i kick w/ my right leg, my left hand is up and as i go into the kick i swing my right hand back, and vice versa when i kick w/ the other leg. i always thought that was the correct way to do it and it feels comfortable for some reason (probably because it allows me to twist my hips into the kick a bit more).
however, my friend who's started training a little bit at a local muay thai gym told me that his instructor told him to keep both hands up during a kick. im like, wut the heezy?!!? and we had to agree to disagree. when i tried to do it, there was almost no power behind my kicks. does anyone here kick w/ both hands up? thanks in advance for the replies.

[Spoozer]

I was taught to swing the arm of whatever leg I'm kicking with. It generates more hip movement for a stronger strike. I would agree with you.

[Meatsack]

We are taught to exchange hands...such that, throwing a right legkick after a jab, I would extend my right hand and bring my left in to guard my chin.

[KPB]

Not the only way, but Hoost's coach Vos is pretty well respected:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=9yP9MSMRVuo

[dmon]

I keep two hands up during leg kicks and my "opposite" hand up during mid/high level kick. This is probably a result of my TMA background, I don't think my power changes drastically with one or two hands up (especially w/leg kicks).

[GCSD Fighter]

Up, protecting your face. I like it when guys drop their arm thinking it gives them extra whip, perfect for a powerful cross to end it early and go to the pub. Put your shoulder into it but always keep your face protected.

[Kyle Gelinas]

ya i always thought u had to make it look like u were gunna punch like set up for a punch..

[philong]

Originally Posted by GCSD Fighter

Up, protecting your face. I like it when guys drop their arm thinking it gives them extra whip, perfect for a powerful cross to end it early and go to the pub. Put your shoulder into it but always keep your face protected.

BINGO.
I will intentionally give a kicker an open target if he drops his hand just so I can land my counter after I deflect his kick. Remember the some last words from the Ref before a fight starts are "protect yourself at all times".

[koreankid6413]

i keep mine up, i dont swing my arms

[SKBDO]

nice post. For me it depends when I was taking Kung -Fu we were taught to guard the face and groin when kicking, when i started taking Muay Thai we were taught to basicaily swing the arms. Now in SKBDO were trained to always keep your guard and generate your power from hips and pivot foot. I'll say no offense has a perfect defense so use which one that best supports your style or intent of movement.