It is also of primary

importance that the kicking leg should be withdrawn sharply (but smoothly) immediately after impact. The opponent will then have no chance to catch hold of it, and a strong stance can be resumed in preparation for the next manoeuvre.

Mae-geri (front kick). The usual striking surface is the ball of the foot. Pulling the toes back makes the ball of the foot more prominent and also prevents the toes from being damaged. Start the kick by pulling up the knee and then snap the lower leg and foot toward the target. Pull back the foot with the knee still held high and finally lower to resume the original stance or to move into the next stance. While performing this kick avoid the common mistake of raising the shoulders, pushing the head forward and buttocks backward. The hips should be pushed forward behind the attack.