The Best Taekwondo Fighting Strategy (And Other Strategies You Should Know)
Is There One Best Fighting Strategy in Taekwondo?
The short answer is yes — but only in a specific sense.
There is one strategy that works extremely well in modern Taekwondo competition, especially WT rules.
However, there is no single strategy that works for every fighter.
The best Taekwondo fighting strategy is the one that:
- fits your body type
- matches your timing and reflexes
- uses your strongest kicks
- limits your weaknesses
Before exploring different styles, let’s start with the most effective core strategy in Taekwondo.
The Best Taekwondo Fighting Strategy: Distance Control
In Taekwondo, distance control wins fights.
The most effective strategy is to:
- stay at kicking distance
- force your opponent to enter your range
- score on timing, not power
Why this strategy works so well:
- the scoring system rewards clean contact
- kicks score more than punches
- the first clean touch often scores
This strategy relies on:
- fast kicks
- precise footwork
- excellent timing
Distance control is the foundation of modern Taekwondo fighting.
Strategy 1: The Counter Fighter
Principle
You let your opponent attack first, then respond immediately with a clean kick.
Strengths
- Very effective against aggressive fighters
- Saves energy
- Strong fight awareness
Key Techniques
- Counter roundhouse kick
- Stop side kick
- Cut kick
Best For
- Calm fighters
- Good reflexes
- Strong timing
Strategy 2: Smart Pressure Fighter
Principle
You constantly move forward to pressure your opponent without rushing.
Strengths
- Creates mental pressure
- Forces mistakes
- Controls the pace of the fight
Key Techniques
- Simple combinations
- Repeated body kicks
- Straight-line attacks
Best For
- Good cardio
- Strong mindset
- Consistent fighters
This strategy requires discipline. Blind aggression leads to counters.
Strategy 3: Cut Kick Specialist
Principle
You use the cut kick to block attacks and control space.
Strengths
- Excellent distance control
- Disrupts opponent rhythm
- Very effective in competition
Key Techniques
- Cut kick
- Side kick
- Fast repositioning
Best For
- Technical fighters
- Good balance
- Strong positioning skills
Strategy 4: Explosive Hit-and-Move Fighter
Principle
You attack quickly, score, and immediately move away.
Strengths
- Hard to read
- Low risk
- Efficient with electronic scoring
Key Techniques
- Fast single kicks
- Feints
- Lateral movement
Best For
- Fast fighters
- Good coordination
- Sharp timing
Strategy 5: Creative and Unpredictable Fighter
Principle
You constantly change rhythm, angles, and techniques.
Strengths
- Extremely unpredictable
- Breaks rigid fighters
- Creates unexpected openings
Key Techniques
- Feints
- Rhythm changes
- Varied kicks (axe kick, back kick, simple spinning kicks)
Best For
- Experienced fighters
- Strong fight reading
- Natural creativity
How to Choose the Right Taekwondo Strategy
Ask yourself these questions:
- Am I faster or more enduring?
- Do I prefer attacking or countering?
- Do I feel better controlling or pressuring?
The best approach is often:
- distance control as a base
- one main strategy
- one secondary strategy to adapt
Common Mistake: Copying Other Fighters
Many practitioners try to copy:
- champions
- teammates
- viral fight clips
But a strong strategy must be adapted to your body, your timing, and your level.
Final Thoughts on Taekwondo Fighting Strategy
The best Taekwondo fighting strategy is built on:
- distance control
- timing
- simplicity
- adaptability
Knowing multiple strategies allows you to:
- adapt to different opponents
- improve faster
- fight with confidence
Want to Train the Kicks Used in Real Taekwondo Fighting?
If you want to improve your kicks, timing, and distance control, try the Taekwondo Kicks Training app.
You get:
- kicks used in real fights
- short and effective sessions
- training focused on control and precision
7-day free trial available.
Available on the App Store and Google Play.