Ap Chagi
앞차기
A basic straight front kick in Korean martial arts, striking with the ball of the foot.
Quick Facts
CategoryBody Part
Pronunciation/[ahp chah-gee]/
Definition
Ap chagi (front kick) is one of the first kicks taught to taekwondo students. Its execution begins with a dynamic raising of the knee high toward the chest, followed by a sharp extension of the shin forward. The target surface (weapon) is usually the ball of the foot (ap chuk), allowing a penetrating strike to the abdomen, chest, or chin. After hitting the target, the leg must be snapped back instantly (recoil) so the opponent cannot catch it. This kick is fast, hard to spot, and highly effective.