Ever thought about getting fit while learning how to throw a mean punch? Kickboxing might just become your new favourite sport, then! Let’s explore what makes kickboxing so exciting, from the basics to the benefits.
What is Kickboxing?
Kickboxing is a hybrid martial art, and while its roots are quite ancient, the term “kickboxing” gained popularity in Japan during the 1960s. It mixes punching and kicking techniques from various martial arts, including karate, Muay Thai, and Western boxing. Today, it’s popular worldwide, both in competitions and for its fitness benefits.
The Roots: Muay Thai and Kickboxing
Muay Thai, Thailand’s traditional martial art, has significantly influenced modern kickboxing. It focuses on using fists, elbows, knees, and shins to strike, making it effective in close combat. Its techniques are powerful and integral to the evolution of kickboxing.
Fast forward to today: kickboxing gained international recognition in the 1970s and 1980s, leading to the creation of the K-1 organization in 1993. K-1 unified various kickboxing styles under a common set of rules, promoting the sport globally.
Kickboxing vs. Western Boxing and Muay Thai
Before you wonder… No, kickboxing is not just boxing with kicks. While it shares some moves with Western boxing, like jabs and hooks, the range of techniques and styles sets it apart.
Western boxing focuses solely on punches, footwork, and head movement. Muay Thai, on the other hand, includes elbows, clinching, and a full-contact approach with a lot of in-fighting and powerful low kicks. Kickboxing incorporates punches, kicks, and some knee strikes but usually without the clinching and elbow strikes seen in Muay Thai.
Basic Techniques in Kickboxing
Kickboxing is an art that combines precision, power, and technique. To master it, here are some key moves every kickboxer should know:
- Jab-Cross: Quick jab with your lead hand followed by a power-packed straight punch with your rear hand. One-two punch, literally! Other punch-based moves include hooks and uppercuts.
- Roundhouse Kick: Swing your leg in a semicircle for a high-impact kick.
- Straight Knee: Thrust your knee forward, aiming for your opponent’s midsection. Ouch!
Training and Gear
Training for kickboxing? You’ll need the right gear to keep things safe and effective. The essential gear includes:
- Boxing gloves to protect your hands and soften the blow for your opponent. They come in different weights, typically ranging from 8oz to 16oz, depending on your size and training intensity.
- Groin protectors — because no one wants a low blow. Ever. Essential for both men and women.
- Protective gear like mouthguards, shin guards, and headgear. These will save you from the most common injuries.
Training often involves a mix of shadowboxing, pad work, heavy bag training, and sparring to develop technique, power, and endurance.
Kickboxing Promotions and Governing Bodies
Kickboxing promotions and governing bodies play crucial roles in this sport. Promotions like Glory Kickboxing and K-1 host events, manage logistics, and market the fights. They basically bring the action to fans worldwide.
On the other hand, governing bodies such as the World Association of Kickboxing Organizations (WAKO) set the rules and ensure fair play. They sanction events, manage rankings, and oversee championships. Together, they keep kickboxing exciting and competitive.
Benefits of Kickboxing
Kickboxing is evidently a lot of fun, but it’s also packed with benefits that you should consider to appreciate the sport even more.
First of all, fitness. Kickboxing is a full-body workout that boosts your cardiovascular health, strength, and flexibility. The high-intensity nature of kickboxing helps burn calories and build muscle.
So it’s a great idea if one of your goals is weight loss. Kickboxing workouts typically last 1-2 hours and can burn up an insane amount of calories per session. Combined with a balanced diet, regular kickboxing training can be a highly effective part of any weight loss plan.
Kickboxing will also teach you practical techniques to protect yourself. The combination of punches, kicks, and knees makes kickboxing a versatile self-defence system.
As such, kickboxing will also improve your mental health and self-esteem tremendously — it’s a great stress buster and confidence booster. The intense physical activity releases endorphins, reducing stress and improving mood. Plus, can you even imagine how much satisfaction mastering a new skill can bring you?