Hitmonlee, known as the Kicking Pokémon, is a humanoid fighting type Pokémon with no discernible head, instead having a face on his chest. Hitmonlee was originally known as "Sawamura" in Japanese, which is based on Japanese kickboxer Tadashi Sawamura. Similarly, Hitmonlee's English name is derived from the name of martial artist Bruce Lee. Hitmonlee's legs freely contract and stretch. Using these springlike legs, it bowls over foes with devastating kicks. When it runs, it can lengthen its legs to run more smoothly. Its kicks are very powerful, as the sole of its heel can be as hard as a diamond. With amazing balance, it can kick in any stance for long periods of time. If its foe tries to get away, Hitmonlee will stretch its legs to take out the opponent. To overcome fatigue after a battle, it rubs the muscles on its legs to loosen them.