Should you be able to do split to kick higher? That’s a question many beginners in martial arts, kickboxing, or even fitness training often ask. Some people say you must do the splits to kick high, while others say it’s not really needed. So, who’s right? Well, let’s break it down simply. Kicking high looks cool and feels strong, but getting there isn’t always about doing a perfect split. It’s more about how your body moves, stretches, and balances. In this blog post, we’ll talk about why flexibility helps, how much the splits actually matter, and what else you can do to reach your goal of higher, stronger kicks — even if your legs don’t stretch all the way to the floor!
Now, let’s get something straight: doing the splits can help with flexibility, and flexibility is important for high kicks — but it’s not the only thing that matters. When you try to kick higher, your hips, legs, and core muscles all need to work together. If one of those areas is weak or stiff, your kick will feel stuck or shaky, no matter how close you are to a full split. Some people can’t do the splits at all but still kick above their head. That’s because they train smart — with dynamic stretching, balance drills, and strength exercises. So instead of only chasing the splits, think about improving the whole body for better kicks. It’s okay if you can’t go all the way down yet — just keep stretching a little every day, build your strength, and you’ll kick higher over time.
Should You Be Able to Do Split to Kick Higher or Is It a Myth?
Should you be able to do split to kick higher or is that just something people say? It’s a common idea that if you can do a full split, you’ll be able to kick super high. But that’s not always true. While doing the splits shows good flexibility, high kicks also need balance, strength, and control. Some humans can’t do a full split but nevertheless kick above their head. Why? Because they train smart with other types of stretching and strong muscle work. So sure, splits can help, however they’re no longer magic. Kicking higher is more about a full-body mix of training — not just one stretch. So, no worries if you can’t do the splits yet. You can still improve a lot!
Why Splits Help but Aren’t the Only Way to Kick Higher
Splits are great because they stretch your inner thighs, hips, and hamstrings — the muscles that need to move when you kick. But doing the splits alone won’t teach your body how to kick high. That’s because high kicks are a fast, strong motion, and splits are a slow stretch. To kick higher, you need to teach like you are kicking. That means moving stretches, good balance, and building leg strength. So yes, splits can make your muscles more flexible and help prevent injury, but they don’t give you all the tools you need. Think of the splits as one helpful piece of the puzzle — not the whole picture. Don’t worry if splits are hard, just keep training other ways too!
Real Truth: Can You Kick High Without Doing the Splits?
Yes, you can! You don’t need to be able to do the splits to kick high. The real truth is that many martial artists, dancers, and fitness lovers can kick above their waist or even to the head without ever touching the ground in a split. They focus on dynamic flexibility, leg strength, balance, and core control. Kicking high is a moving skill, and splits are more of a sitting skill. If you train smart, you can make fast progress without forcing the splits. So don’t get stuck thinking you’re not flexible enough. Everyone has a different body, and there are many ways to reach a high kick. Just keep practicing, stay patient, and find the training style that works best for you.
Simple Stretches That Help You Kick Higher Without Full Splits
If you can’t do full splits yet, don’t worry! There are still easy stretches that help you kick higher. Try standing leg swings — swing your leg forward and back like a pendulum. It helps warm your hips and stretch your hamstrings. Another great move is the butterfly stretch, where you sit with your feet together and gently press your knees down. Also, lunges are awesome! They open your hips and stretch your legs at the same time.Hold each stretch for 20–30 seconds and breathe slowly. These easy stretches make your legs and hips more flexible, even if your splits aren’t perfect. Do them often, and you’ll feel your kicks going higher and smoother with less effort and more control.
Best Warm-Ups Before Practicing High Kicks
Warming up is super important before you try to kick high. Cold muscles can get tight and hurt if you stretch or kick too fast. A good warm-up gets your blood flowing and your body ready to move. Start with some light jogging or jumping jacks to wake up your muscles. Then try leg swings, hip circles, and gentle knee lifts. These warm-up moves are great because they copy the way your body moves when you kick. Don’t skip this part — a warm body can stretch better and kick higher without pain. Doing a warm-up also makes your training safer and more fun. When you feel loose and strong, your kicks will go higher and feel better every time.
Dynamic vs Static Stretching: Which One Helps Your Kick More?
Dynamic stretching means moving while you stretch — like swinging your legs or doing walking lunges. Static stretching is when you stay still, like sitting in a split or touching your toes. Both are useful, but dynamic stretching helps your kicks more, especially before training. That’s because kicking is a fast movement, and your body needs to practice moving in those ways. Start your workout with dynamic stretches to warm up. After your training, do static stretches to cool down and build long-term flexibility. Mixing both types gives you strong, stretchy muscles that work better. So if you’re asking should you be able to do split to kick higher, the answer starts with how you stretch — not just how far you go.
Easy Balance and Strength Moves to Kick Higher Every Week
To kick higher, you need more than just stretching. Your body also needs to be strong and steady. Try this simple move: stand on one foot and raise the other leg in front of you. Hold it up for 10 seconds. This helps your balance and makes your hip muscles stronger. You can also try slow-motion kicks — lift your leg and kick gently, without letting your foot fall. These moves work your core, thighs, and legs all at once. Do them 3–4 times a week and you’ll feel a big difference. Remember, a strong leg can kick higher and faster. Don’t rush. Start slow, focus on good form, and build power over time. That’s how high kicks really happen!
Can Kids and Beginners Kick High Without Doing Splits?
Yes, kids and beginners can learn to kick high even if they can’t do the splits yet. High kicks take time and practice, but they don’t need perfect flexibility on day one. Children’s bodies are still growing and they can build strength and flexibility slowly with fun and simple moves. Kicking drills, balance games, and easy stretches help a lot. It’s important to go step by step and not push too hard. When training is fun, safe, and regular, progress happens naturally. Even adults who are just starting can get better over time. If you’re new and asking should you be able to do split to kick higher, the answer is no — just train smart and you’ll get there.
How Often Should You Stretch If You Want Higher Kicks?
To kick higher, you should stretch a little every day. Stretching frequently allows your muscular tissues stay unfastened and ready to move. You don’t need to do long sessions — even 10 to 15 minutes a day is enough.Focus at the hips, legs, and lower again. Try to stretch while your body is heat, like after a workout or a short stroll. Some people stretch in the morning to wake up their body. Others stretch before bed to relax. Choose what feels best for you. The key is to stay consistent. The more you stretch, the more flexible and strong you’ll become. And yes, even if you can’t do the splits now, daily stretching will help your kicks rise higher and feel easier.
What to Do If Your Body Just Won’t Let You Do the Splits
Some people try for months but still can’t do the splits. That’s okay! Everyone has a different body. Maybe your muscles are tight, or maybe your joints just don’t move that far — and that’s totally normal. If splits are hard, don’t give up. Try other ways to stay flexible, like yoga or dynamic kicks. Focus on what you can do and not just what you can’t. Strength, balance, and control are just as important for high kicks. If you’re feeling stuck, take breaks, stretch gently, and keep a calm mindset. You’ll still be able to kick higher with practice. Remember, have to you be able to do break up to kick higher isn’t always the actual question — the actual win is constant progress!
Conclusion
Training your body to kick higher is not all about doing the splits. It helps, but you don’t need the splits to become great at high kicks. There are many ways to stretch, move, and build strength without doing a full split. So don’t worry if you can’t touch the floor with your legs — just keep trying, and you will still get better.
The best thing you can do is keep practicing a little every day. Use warm-ups, balance moves, and easy stretches to help your body grow stronger and more flexible. With time, your kicks will get higher. Everyone’s body is different, and that’s okay. Just do your best, have fun, and enjoy the journey!
FAQs
Q: Should you be capable of do cut up to kick better?
A: Not always. Splits help, but you can still kick high without doing them.
Q: Can kids learn high kicks without full splits?
A: Yes! Kids can kick high by using fun stretches and simple strength moves.
Q: What’s better for high kicks: dynamic or static stretching?
A: Dynamic stretching is better before training. Static is better after.
Q: How many times a week should I stretch?
A: Stretch every day if you can, even just for 10 minutes.
Q: My legs are stiff. Can I still learn to kick high?
A: Yes! Start slow, stretch gently, and you will improve over time.
