Side Kick Countering with Mark Trotter

Countering is a key skill in modern ITF sparring. In this session, Mr Mark Trotter works through a structured approach to building an effective counter, taking the drill from simple concepts through to realistic sparring application.

Drawing the Opponent In

Mr Trotter begins by focusing on body positioning. By subtly adjusting distance and posture, the defender encourages the opponent to commit to the lead leg side kick. This deliberate invitation is a critical part of the tactic, creating the opening needed for a clean counter.

Effective countering is as much about provoking the attack as it is about responding to it.

The Core Counter and Follow-Ups

The primary counter taught in this session is a leading hand punch, used to intercept the attack as the side kick is launched. Once this is established, the drill is expanded with a follow-up turning kick, reinforcing the importance of combination work rather than relying on a single response.

As proficiency improves, additional techniques are layered into the drill, including the jab, back kick, and reverse hooking kick. Each addition builds on the same tactical foundation, helping the student maintain structure and timing as complexity increases.

Progressing the Drill to Live Sparring

A strength of this session is the way the drill is progressively developed. Rather than jumping straight to free sparring, Mr Trotter shows how to refine each stage until the student can execute the counter smoothly and confidently.

This progression helps ensure the technique is reliable under pressure and transferable to actual sparring, not just rehearsed in isolation.

Learn more about the instructor featured in this video here:

Mr Mark Trotter – Expert Coach Profile

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