5 Ways To Use The Teep in Muay Thai (Push Kick Techniques & Strategy)

The teep — also called the push kick — is one of Muay Thai’s most versatile and strategic techniques. Unlike a snapping front kick, the teep uses hip thrust and extension to push an opponent away, disrupt their rhythm, or create openings for follow-up attacks.

In this guide, we break down 5 tactical ways to use the teep in sparring, drills, and competition — from measuring distance to powerful strikes that can off-balance or damage an opponent.

1) Teep for Range & Distance Control

Like a jab, the teep is excellent for gauging and controlling range. Because it reaches farther than a jab or low kick, it allows you to measure kicking distance from the outside while keeping you safe.

These teeps can be light and quick, aimed at your opponent’s legs or midsection. You don’t need full hip drive here — just enough extension to disrupt their forward rhythm and make them react.

2) Teep to the Abdomen — Disrupt & Unbalance

A properly timed teep to the abdomen stops advancing opponents and can off-balance them. A slightly pushed-back opponent is easier to counter and control.

This variation doesn’t need excessive power — landing cleanly and accurately will achieve the goal. Many high-level fighters, like Buakaw, used the abdomen teep throughout their careers to control distance and wear down opponents.

3) Teep to the Thigh — Attack & Slow Movement

Kicking your opponent’s thigh with the teep can disrupt their balance and blunt their movement. This is especially effective when used repeatedly or with good timing.

Lead leg thigh teeps are most common since the rear leg teep exposes you more to counters. A slight outward twist of the kicking foot improves contact and reduces slipping on sweaty skin.

4) High Chest Teep — Push Back Opponent

A high teep aimed around the chest or solar plexus disrupts your opponent’s centre of gravity and forces them back, opening space for your next offensive move — often a low kick, punch run, or clinch entry.

Drive forward with the hips and keep your opposite hand tight to protect your head. This teep is most effective when your opponent is coming forward.

5) Head Teep — A High-Risk, High-Reward Strike

The most dramatic teep aims high at the head and face. When executed with speed and precision, it can disrupt balance or even lead to a knockout — but as with all head-level kicks, it leaves you more exposed.

This variation is usually used when your opponent is backing up or already off balance. In such situations, the high teep adds both momentum and tactical surprise.

Tactical Tips for Teep Mastery

• Mix teep variations to keep your opponent guessing
• Use the teep to set up combinations like low kicks or punches
• Always retract your teep quickly to avoid counters
• Combine with footwork to dictate distance and tempo

For more technique breakdowns, check out:

• How to throw the perfect punch
• Head kick technique guide
• Defense and sparring strategy

Conclusion

The teep is one of Muay Thai’s most elegant, multi-purpose weapons. Mastering it expands your tactical options, improves your control of distance, and gives you tools to disrupt, counter, and dominate across all ranges.

Whether you’re just learning the teep or refining your timing and power, practicing varied uses of this push kick will drastically improve your overall Muay Thai game.