Savate Techniques: Precision and Style in French Kickboxing

In our previous posts, we’ve explored the history of Savate and compared it with Muay Thai.

Now, let’s take a closer look at the techniques that make Savate such a unique and compelling martial art. Known for its precision and stylish movements, Savate offers a different flavor of kickboxing that combines efficiency with elegance.

The Foundations of Savate

Before we dive into specific techniques, it’s important to understand the foundational elements that make Savate unique:

1. Footwear: Unlike most martial arts, Savate is practiced wearing shoes. This allows for distinctive kicking techniques that utilize different parts of the foot.
2. Stance: The basic Savate stance is upright and mobile, with weight distributed evenly on both feet.
3. Movement: Fluid, almost dance-like movement is a hallmark of Savate. Practitioners are taught to be light on their feet and ready to attack or defend from any angle.

Now, let’s explore the specific techniques that define this French martial art.

Savate Kicks (Coups de Pied)

Savate is renowned for its diverse and precise kicking techniques. Here are some of the most important kicks in the Savate arsenal:

1. Fouetté (Whip Kick)

• A round kick that “whips” the leg towards the target.
• Can be performed low (fouetté bas), middle (fouetté médian), or high (fouetté figure).
• The striking surface is typically the point or flat of the shoe.

1. Chassé (Piston Kick)

• A side kick delivered with a piston-like action.
• Can be performed low, middle, or high.
• The striking surface is usually the heel or sole of the shoe.

1. Revers

• A hook kick performed with the sole of the shoe.
• Can be delivered frontally (revers frontal) or laterally (revers lateral).

1. Coup de Pied Bas

• A low kick targeting the shin or calf.
• Unique to Savate, it’s performed with a horizontal sweeping motion using the sole of the shoe.

1. Coup de Pied en Vache (Cow Kick)

• An arcing kick that comes down onto the target from above.
• Often targets the shoulder or collarbone.

Savate Punches (Coups de Poing)

While kicks are a defining feature of Savate, the art also includes a full complement of boxing techniques:

1. Direct

• A straight punch, similar to a jab or cross in boxing.
• Can be thrown with either hand.

1. Crochet

• A hook punch, delivered in a horizontal arc.

1. Uppercut

• An upward vertical punch, typically targeting the chin or solar plexus.

1. Swing

• A wide, looping punch delivered with a bent arm.
• Less common in modern competitive Savate.

Defensive Techniques

Savate’s defensive techniques are as elegant as its offensive ones:

1. Parades

• Blocks using the arms or legs to deflect incoming strikes.

1. Esquives

• Evasive movements used to avoid attacks.
• Often combined with counterattacks.

1. Décalages

• Stepping offline to avoid attacks and create new angles.

Footwork and Movement

The footwork in Savate is one of its most distinctive features:

1. Pas de Savate

• The basic stepping pattern in Savate.
• Involves sliding the feet along the ground to maintain balance and readiness.

1. Balestra

• A jumping advance, often used to close distance quickly.

1. Débordement

• A flanking movement used to gain an advantageous angle on the opponent.

Combinations in Savate

Savate techniques truly shine when combined into fluid sequences. Here are a few classic Savate combinations:

1. Direct Lead + Fouetté Rear Leg

• A quick jab followed by a powerful round kick.

1. Chassé Bas + Crochet

• A low side kick followed by a hook punch, exploiting the opponent’s reaction to the kick.

1. Décalage + Revers

• Stepping offline and immediately following with a hook kick.

Training Savate Techniques

If you’re interested in learning these techniques in Austin, here are some tips for your training:

1. Focus on Form: Savate places a high value on correct technique. Pay close attention to the details of each movement.
2. Develop Flexibility: Many Savate kicks require good flexibility, especially in the hips and legs.
3. Practice Footwork: Spend time on footwork drills to develop the fluid movement characteristic of Savate.
4. Combine Punches and Kicks: Work on seamlessly transitioning between punches and kicks in your combinations.
5. Use Visualization: Given the precision required in Savate, mental practice can be very beneficial.

Savate in Modern Martial Arts

While Savate might not be as widely practiced as some other martial arts, its techniques have found their way into many modern fighting systems:

• Many MMA fighters incorporate Savate-style kicks into their arsenal, particularly the chassé bas.
• The footwork principles of Savate can be valuable in any striking art.
• The emphasis on precision and technique in Savate can benefit practitioners of any martial art.

Conclusion

Savate techniques offer a unique blend of precision, efficiency, and style. From its distinctive kicks to its fluid footwork, Savate provides a different perspective on kickboxing that can enrich any martial artist’s repertoire.

Whether you’re a seasoned martial artist looking to expand your skill set or a beginner intrigued by Savate’s elegant approach to combat, exploring these techniques can open up new dimensions in your training. The precision and style inherent in Savate not only make it an effective martial art but also a beautiful one to watch and practice.

Remember, as with any martial art, mastering Savate techniques requires patience, consistent practice, and good instruction. But for those willing to put in the effort, Savate offers a rewarding journey into a unique and sophisticated fighting system.

So the next time you’re in your Austin gym working on your kicks, why not try adding a fouetté or a chassé to your routine? You might just find that touch of French flair adds a whole new dimension to your martial arts practice.