Drill 5 of 5 · 10 min
Check, Counter, Angle Off
Combine the defensive check with an exit angle so you never stand in front of the kicker trading.
How to practice
- Partner throws low kicks from range with light follow-up punches.
- Check the kick, fire one straight counter, then pivot 45 degrees off the line before they reload.
- Drill the sequence ten times in a row: check, counter, angle, reset.
- Add a double: check their kick, chop their post leg, angle off.
- Have the partner chase after your counter so your exit angle gets tested under pressure.
- Finish with one round of kick-only sparring where you must angle off after every exchange.
Coaching cues
The angle is part of the counter, not an afterthoughtPivot off the lead foot after you land, not beforeNever back straight out of kicking range — go sidewaysRe-engage behind the jab once you have the new angle
Common mistakes
- Checking and staying planted, giving them a second free kick
- Pivoting before landing the counter and missing the scoring window
- Always angling the same direction until the kicker times it
Video references
External YouTube references — third-party content, not affiliated.