Senpukyaku

Senpukyaku (旋風脚) is a Japanese term meaning “whirlwind kick” or “cyclone kick.” The kanji combination 旋風 means whirlwind or cyclone, and 脚 means leg or kick. The term describes a kicking technique characterized by a spinning or circular motion, typically delivering rapid successive kicks and often advancing the fighter toward the opponent.

In real-world martial arts and in popular culture, senpukyaku is used to convey a flashy, high-speed kicking sequence. It is commonly depicted as a forward-moving or airborne maneuver in which the practitioner delivers multiple kicks in a spiraling path. The exact form and emphasis of the technique can vary between styles and media.

In video games, senpukyaku is a recurring concept or move name in fighting games. It is frequently portrayed as a special or super move that lets a character close distance and strike multiple times, with input methods differing by title. Common representations emphasize speed, momentum, and edge in close-quarters combat. The move is often associated with Japanese-origin characters or design sensibilities, and is used to signal agility and offense.

In the Street Fighter franchise and related media, the term is used to name a whirlwind kick-style technique. The move is one of several rapid-kick sequences depicted across games, anime, and manga, contributing to the trope of a fast, spiraling assault.

See also: whirlwind kick, multiple-kick techniques, fighting game mechanics.