Savate's Classical Arm Extensions

Savate’s classical arm extensions
by Craig Gemeiner

The following short article deals with the basic application of savate’s classical counterbalancing arm extensions no longer used in the modern sport.

One of the most prominent distinctions between savate kicking skills and those of other combat styles is the use of arm extensions while performing various long-range kicking manoeuvres. One theory subscribed to by some savateurs is that European fencing and possibly ballet played an influencing role in the utilisation of these arm extensions.

While the extension and positioning of the upper limbs is aesthetically pleasing, it has little to do with looking elegant or graceful. Its application is crucial in the transference of power, balance and the recovery phase, and is particularly useful when combined with several kicking manoeuvres in a continues and flowing attack sequence.

Arm extensions can be executed in several different ways. By one method, a circular swing of the arm (almost to the point of circumduction) can be made from the shoulder (humero-scapular) joint. This extension consists of vigorously drawing the arm down and backward in a semi circle, the movement rotates the body around its vertical axis and rapidly positions the savateur into a lateral plan for kicking. The action terminates with the hand behind the body and in line with the head.

Another method includes a short roll or extension at the elbow (hinge joint) which is useful for opening up the shoulder girdle as well as elevating the body for mid line kicking. As the trailing arm extends outwards, the leading arm simultaneously drops in a position diagonally across the trunk to ‘gate’ or ‘bar’ the ‘mark’ (stomach), if required the lead shoulder may be raised to offer protection against blows aimed at the jaw.

Extending the arm forcefully downward can be applied to project the hips forward, as the coup de pied bas and coup de pied pointe illustrates.

Extending the arm back in a linear plan assists in carrying the body into the appropriate position for attack while maintaining an unbroken power line from foot to hand. The rear extension also checks forward velocity and facilitates a state of equilibrium.

Lieut. Col. Biddle teaching savate 1944.
The young Marine displays the classical counter balance arm extension aiming his chasse at Biddle's shin bone just below the knee.

If pressured against a wall the arms can be used to brace the body while warding the opponent off with low-line kicking manoeuvres.

Chausson often employed the practise of placing one or two hands on the floor when kicking. This was born of the necessity to account for the roll of the ocean while training on the deck of a ship and was recognised as being a particularly valuable practice for land combat on slippery and unstable terrain. This descending arm placement offers a balance two or three point base of support, should the savateur be knocked back and decentralised, required to lean back to reduce the availability of the upper body as a target, or attempting to counter an ankle scoop.

Long range weapon defence. Throwing a jacket into the opponent's face opens up a window of opportunity. The individual on the right follows up with a chasse sole, reclining back onto a two point base of support and avoiding the opponent's visually restricted counter.

Once the correct use of the arm extensions is acquired and successfully integrated within the biomechanics of kicking then a smooth, balanced and completely co-ordinated style will emerge. It is this style that gives the French method of kicking a unique expression of its own.

Primary Sources

Plasait, Bernard, " La boxe integrale technique de la boxe francaise"

Plasait, Bernard, " Boxe Francaise par l'image"

Warning - This article is for historical information and academic study only. The Australian Savate home page will not be held responsible for the use or misuse of information contained herein.