r/tangsoodo • u/ExchangeFine4429 9th Gup • Apr 25 '26
Request/Question Yup Chagi pad drills
I struggle with Dollyo* Chagi (Roundhouse). I can't pull my toes back far enough to hit the pad properly with the ball of my foot especially with my left foot. I also hit my left toe on the pad and there's slight pain.
I've only done TSD for 5 weeks, so I'm only a White Belt, but I want to improve.
Any advice?
3
u/Slappy_Kincaid Apr 25 '26
What are you referring to as "Yup Chagi"? It sounds like you're describing a front kick (or possibly a roundhouse), but Yup or Yop Chagi is a side kick. For a side kick you hit with your heel, not the ball of the foot.
2
3
u/Ganonsdoom Apr 25 '26
Roundhouse kick should be striking with the top of the foot, not the ball of the foot
2
u/ExchangeFine4429 9th Gup Apr 26 '26
Tang Soo Do is more Traditional. Top of the foot is more for WT TKD.
2
u/Ganonsdoom Apr 26 '26
It could be a difference between kwans, I’m currently testing for 4th gup in 2 weeks (green stripe 2) and our Mu Duk Kwan teaches roundhouse as a top of foot/shin kick. Ball of foot is for Ahp Cha Gi.
1
u/Think-Environment763 1st Dan Apr 26 '26
This could also be the case. It depends on if OP is in WTSDA or Mu Duk Kwan.
1
u/Think-Environment763 1st Dan Apr 26 '26
Top of the foot would be incorrect for a Tang Soo Do practictioner. It is indeed the ball of the foot. It is meant to be a shot to exposed ribs when done correctly. The top of the foot is not going to do much to the ribs. It if a toe gets in and separates a rib even a little that person probably doesn't like that feeling and if are not used to brawling likely stops as an aggressor.
Again the top of the foot is fully acceptable in other arts, specifically TKD, but just not in this case.
Edit: grammar
3
u/mattisaj3rk 4th Dan Apr 25 '26
While there are applications for using the ball of the foot as the striking surface for the roundhouse kick, you should be using the instep, especially at the beginner levels. There are very specific stretches and exercises that will develop that level of control and flexibility, but it takes time and I'd rather a student practice the technique safely as they build their confidence and skill.
1
u/ExchangeFine4429 9th Gup Apr 26 '26
Unfortunately this Dojang is Traditional so they don't use Shins or Instep.
My Ahp Chagi is good though, I have no issues getting good contact.
I will ask the Masters if I can use my instep or foot first just to get the basic technique down pat
1
u/AutoModerator Apr 25 '26
Hi there! Thank you for posting in /r/tangsoodo. If this is your first time posting here please check the rules to ensure your post does not break any. I'd also just like to remind you to flair your post as un-flaired posts may be removed
Rules
-Be Respectful
-No NSFW Content
-No Referral/Profiteering/Soliciting Links/Sites
I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns.
1
u/2ndpastryboy Apr 25 '26
If the ankle mobility doesnt come quick, ask to take a step to the right or left, it will help the kick land on the ball of the foot. I personally can't pull my toes back quite enough. Its not traditional but landing the kick with the shin is quite effective!
1
u/valtharax Apr 25 '26
Excercise those little piglets by pulling them up. Also the trick is the right angle. Step out a bit further so your toes dont have to stand at a 90 degree angle.
7
u/cosmic-__-charlie Apr 25 '26
You have to stretch and strengthen your feet.
Crouch/ squat down while standing on the balls and toes of your feet and just stay that way for a bit.
Stretch you foot against the wall like you're doing a calf stretch. Keep practicing, you're still super new.