UFC Veteran Nordine Taleb teaches the 3 levels of the front kick (teep) and how to turn it into a weapon that can break ribs.
It has been a real blessing to learn from Nordine Taleb for the past 2 years. However, we are not his only students.
We have seen many current top level names of the UFC enter the doors of his gym to learn from him. In regards to skill and technique, I don't think he has ever been better.
Today, you have a chance to learn something useful and interesting about the fundamental kick called the front kick or "teep":
Known by many as the "jab of the legs," the teep is far more than just a push kick to create distance. It is a calculated weapon that can control the distance, empty the opponent's gas tank or frustrate him.
Here Nordine Taleb introduces us to the 3 levels of the teep, each targeting a distinct zone on the opponent's torso.
You will also learn different ways to setup the kick and one of the most damaging teep variations known to man that can easily break ribs.
Understanding all of this is key to turning this kick into a devastating tool in a martial artist's arsenal.
Understanding the Teep or "Front Kick"
The teep kick, commonly referred to as the push kick, is one of the fundamental kicks of many martial arts. When I first started Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu over 15 years ago, it was one of the most used kicks.
In Muay Thai they have a deep mastery of the "teep". Karate and Wing Chun also have their own unique ways to strike with the front kick.
The front kick might look simple in appearance, but it is packed with depth.
At its core, the front kick is used to control distance, interrupt attacks and create openings. But when applied with precision and intent, it can become a devastating strike.
Taleb teaches three primary zones of the teep:
- Belly button (solar plexus area): This zone is ideal for causing discomfort and pushing the hips behind.
- Just below the diaphragm: Targeting this area can disrupt breathing and empty the gas tank of your opponent.
- The chest: Higher teeps destabilize the opponent and causes them to fall backwards.
Each zone serves a different strategic purpose. Mastering all three adds layers of unpredictability and threat to a fighter's game.
Strategic Applications & Stabbing Teep
One of the teep’s greatest strengths lies in its versatility. It is both a defensive and offensive weapon.
Defensively, it keeps aggressive opponents at bay, breaking their rhythm and frustrating their advances.
Offensively, it sets up combinations, can disrupt breathing and even break ribs!
In fighting, setups are key and this is where Taleb's teachings are especially unique. He has many setups where he hides the front kick by first landing low kicks with similar body mechanics.
When he finally lands the teep, he will use it the opponent's reaction against him by faking the teep and then landing something else. This is high level combat!
The teep can also become a fight-ending tool when delivered with precision. A perfectly placed stabbing teep to the ribs can break the ribs and end the fight right there.
Training for Real Mastery of Combat
As with any technique, repetition is king.
Taleb stresses that mastery of the teep comes through countless (thousands to ten thousands of) reps. This will refine your power, timing, and control.
The secret of mastery is knowledge + practice. Drilling the teep at multiple angles, with varying intensities and setups is how you will get great at it.
The teep is often overlooked by casual observers, but in the hands of a master it becomes a brutal weapon.
By understanding the three levels and mastering the setups, you will have a weapon which you can use for many purposes.
Although Taleb fought in combat sports, these same principles are universal and will apply everywhere.
Stay strong.
PS. If you liked this lesson, I recommend signing up for Taleb's clinch mini-course. It's 100% free and amazing.
