That (insert traditional martial art) stuff doesn’t work in a real fight. This 3 minute and 14 second video would seem to prove that untrue.

Rooted in traditional martial arts of several styles, spin kicks have often been considered impractical. Turning your back to your opponent is always a dangerous proposition. However, we’ve seen spin kicks grow from point fighting, to kickboxing and MMA.

Spin kicks generally require a high level of striking prowess. They require confidence in the technique, and proper set up for a spin kick to land. Andy Hug was a master of the spin kick to the thigh, as seen in this video, to devastating effect. Edson Barboza decimated Terry Etim with a perfect highlight reel spin kick. We saw several attempted spin kicks at UFC Fight Night 82, although none landed cleanly.

The technique almost seems too acrobatic to be effective. Who has the time to practice spinning when there are so many techniques that land at a higher rate? This video shows the spin kick has solidified its place as a valuable tool for any striker in combat sports. As a tool, it allows the striker to attack in an unexpected way – especially if the striker doesn’t telegraph the kick. Effective strikers generally give their opponents a lot to think about. A jab to the body is hardly a finishing attack, but it forces the opponent to react. In the same way, the spin kick can frustrate and confuse your opponent. We are, however, seeing an increase in the effectiveness of the spin kick. With absolutely no evidence to prove this, it seems like we are seeing an increased number of knockouts from spinning attacks. They are thrown by more fighters than ever before, to great effect. What is your favorite spin kick from this video?