Kick Boxing

History Of Kickboxing

Kickboxing is a combination of two sports, karate and something known as Muay Thai boxing. Muay Thai is a form of boxing that is practiced in much of southeastern Asia. Kickboxing roots began found in the country of Japan, where the first fights involving these two sports took place. The sport utilizes kicking, strategic karate style moves, and punching with boxing gloves. In 1966, a governing body called the Kickboxing Association was founded, and gained popularity due to television broadcasting across Japan. Soon thereafter, the sport found its way into gyms across Europe, Australia, and all of North America. Individual and tournament style kickboxing occurs in many countries today. Both male and female professional fighters compete in the sport.

Some countries have their own version and rules of kickboxing, including Japan, the United States, and the country of Europe has developed its own style. The number of rounds varies; the types of kicks and punches also vary from country to country. Unlike regular boxing, weight classes for kickboxing are not standardized and can vary from competition to competition.

Kickboxing Classes

One of the most common forms of kickboxing today is known as cardio kickboxing, which combines the elements of martial arts with aerobic exercise. In this form of kickboxing, participants do not compete against each other and have no physical contact. It is appropriate for men, women, and children of all ages who are in good physical condition that wish to use it as a form of cardiovascular exercise.

Competitive kickboxing is designed for those who wish to participate in matches between other kickboxers and experience a contact sport. These classes teach various techniques specific to defeating opponents and are in general more intense than cardio kickboxing. Participants often spend part of their time learning combat techniques on their own, and then spar with a partner to practically apply what they have learned.

Kickboxing For Self Defense

Kickboxing, like other martial arts, is especially useful in the area of self defense. An attacker may expect one to defend themselves with their hands, but a roundhouse kick to the face is probably not the most anticipated technique. The non-traditional moves in kickboxing may take an attacker by surprise, giving the pursuant a serious advantage. Some people who study kickboxing experience an increase in their level of confidence which is beneficial when studying self defense techniques. The physical fitness benefits of the sport also give people strength and stamina necessary to fend of predators.