At Fight Station Kickboxing, we do things a little differently—and that's by design.
One thing you’ll notice from your very first class is that we don’t use “left” and “right” when teaching movement. Instead, we talk about “lead” and “reverse.”
But why? Isn’t it simpler to just say "left" and "right"?
Actually—no. Here’s why this small change creates a huge difference in how fast you learn, how sharp you move, and how ready you are for real-world situations.
1. Lead and Reverse Focus on Function, Not Just Direction
When you're in a fighting stance, you always have a front side (your lead side) and a back side (your reverse side)—no matter which foot is forward.
This positioning constantly shifts during sparring, drills, and especially in self-defence scenarios.
If we trained you to think in terms of “left” and “right,” you'd have to stop, re-orient yourself, and then act.
In martial arts, that half-second of hesitation could cost you.
When you think in terms of "lead" and "reverse," you're always clear on what part of your body is positioned for action—no matter how you're moving.
2. It Builds Adaptability (The True Mark of a Martial Artist)
Real combat isn’t predictable. You might switch stance mid-combination, react to an opponent’s move, or adjust your footwork on instinct.
If your brain is locked into “left” and “right,” you’re going to stumble when things get fluid.
By training with "lead" and "reverse," you’re wiring your brain for adaptability—so that movement becomes second nature, not a checklist.
You stay responsive instead of getting stuck thinking.
3. It Speeds Up Your Learning Curve
New students often worry about getting confused or overwhelmed when learning techniques.
Using lead and reverse terminology cuts through the noise.
Instead of overthinking "Was that my left foot or right?" you instantly know:
Lead hand = closer to opponent = jab, lead hook
Reverse hand = power side = cross, reverse round kick
We also teach a number of unorthodox students (left handed) meaning things could get mega confusing if we used Left or Right terminoligy.
This shortcut frees up mental space so you can focus on timing, distance, and strategy—the real keys to becoming effective faster.
4. It Prepares You for Real-World Self-Defence
In self-defence, you won't have the luxury of perfectly setting your stance or figuring out your “good side.”
You need to move based on where you are now.
Thinking in terms of lead and reverse conditions you to fight from any stance, at any moment.
This real-world readiness could make all the difference when it counts.
Final Thoughts: It’s About Thinking Like a Fighter
At Fight Station Kickboxing, our mission isn’t just to get you fit—it’s to help you think and move like a martial artist from Day One.
Learning to frame your body and your attacks based on “lead” and “reverse” is a small mental shift that unlocks much bigger results:
If you’re ready to train smarter—not just harder—our Adult Martial Arts program could be the perfect place to start.
📅 Go to our timetable and book your first FREE session today!