Sparring Drills with Grand Master Willy

Back Kick – Back Fist combination training with GM Willy van de Mortel

In our full session with GM Willy, he teaches one of his trademark sparring combinations: Back Kick followed immediately by another Back Fist. The combination works especially well when your opponent has closed the distance, allowing you to deliver a short back kick before snapping into the follow-up hand technique.

Grand Master Willy’s coaching style is clear, energetic and highly practical. Small corrections make a huge difference, and you’ll see him refining the students’ body position, timing and control throughout the class.

Watch the full premium video: Sparring Drills with Grand Master Willy

Watch a Sample Clip

In this short sample clip above, Grand Master Willy van de Mortel teaches a basic double pump side kick. He demonstrates the importance of keeping the kicking leg chambered high between both kicks, ensuring fast transitions and sharp technique. The student performs the “pump-style” double kick directly to Grand Master Willy’s arms — without pads — a hallmark of his hands-on, precise coaching approach.

About This Video

The full session explores how to apply these sparring combinations with proper distance, timing and confidence. Grand Master Willy works closely with the students, helping them understand how chambering, balance and hip alignment all contribute to more effective sparring performance.

You’ll see both footwork and hand-to-foot transitions taught in a simple, progressive way that any student can follow. Instructors will find excellent teaching cues for improving speed, accuracy and readiness in sparring.

Background & Interesting Details

• Grand Master Willy van de Mortel is one of the most respected sparring coaches in the ITF world.
• The back kick–back fist combination is ideal for close-range counter-attacking.
• Pump-style kicking drills help develop precision, timing and leg control.
• The session uses no pads so students can feel correct distance and technique directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does this combination work so well?

The back kick creates immediate space and forces your opponent to react. The back fist exploits that reaction with a quick follow-up, making the combination fast and difficult to counter.

Is this suitable for beginners?

Yes. The mechanics are simple when broken down correctly, and Grand Master Willy’s method makes the drills easy to learn and apply.

Why does he avoid using pads in this drill?

Without pads, students must be precise with distance, control and contact. This builds better awareness and sharper technique for real sparring situations.

To watch the full training session, visit the premium page:
Sparring Drills with Grand Master Willy.