CONDITIONING DRILL 3, EXERCISE 4: FRONT KICK ALTERNATE TOE TOUCH
Purpose: This exercise develops balance, coordination, and flexibility of the legs and trunk (Figure 9-15).
Starting Position: Straddle stance with hands on hips.
Cadence: MODERATE
Count:
- Raise the left leg to the front of the body until it is parallel to the ground while simultaneously bending forward at the waist, extending the right arm forward, and reaching with the right hand toward the left foot, while the left arm reaches rearward.
- Return to the starting position.
- Raise the right leg to the front of the body until it is parallel to the ground while simultaneously bending forward at the waist, extending the left arm forward, and reaching with the left hand toward the right foot, while the right arm reaches rearward.
- Return to the starting position.
Figure 9-15. Front kick alternate toe touch
Check Points:
- At the starting position, tighten the abdominals to stabilize the trunk.
- On counts 1 and 3, rotate the trunk to reach for the toes keeping the back generally straight.
- Keep the head and the eyes forward throughout the exercise.
- Maintain a slight bend in the knee as it moves parallel to the ground.
Precaution: N/A