Kickboxing is a combat sport that originated in Japan in the 1960s and became popular around the world in the 1970s and 80s.
It combines the techniques of boxing with those of martial arts, including kicks, knees, and elbows.
Kickboxing has since evolved into various styles and disciplines, including American kickboxing, Muay Thai, and K-1.
In this article, we will explore the basic techniques of kickboxing, including punches, kicks, and footwork.
Punching Techniques
Kickboxing includes various punching techniques, each with its own distinct purpose and application. These include:
1. Jab - The jab is a quick and light punch that is used to probe the opponent's defences and set up more powerful punches. The jab is thrown with the lead hand and is aimed at the opponent's head or body.
2. Cross - The cross is a straight punch thrown with the rear hand. It is a powerful punch aimed at the opponent's head or body. The cross is usually preceded by a jab to set up the punch.
3. Hook - The hook is a semi-circular punch thrown with the lead hand. It is a powerful punch aimed at the opponent's head or body. The hook is usually thrown after a jab or as a counter to an opponent's attack.
4. Uppercut - The uppercut is an upward punch thrown with the rear hand. It is a powerful punch aimed at the opponent's chin or body. The uppercut is usually thrown at close range and is used to surprise the opponent.
Kicking Techniques
Kickboxing is also known for its kicking techniques, which include:
1. Roundhouse kick - The roundhouse kick is a powerful kick that is aimed at the opponent's body or head. It is thrown with the leg and is delivered in a circular motion. The kick can be aimed at the opponent's thigh, midsection, or head.
2. Front kick - The front kick is a quick and light kick that is aimed at the opponent's midsection or head. It is thrown with the ball of the foot and is delivered in a straight line. The front kick can be used to keep the opponent at a distance or to set up other techniques.
3. Sidekick - The sidekick is a powerful kick that is aimed at the opponent's midsection or head. It is thrown with the heel of the foot and is delivered in a straight line. The sidekick is usually used to push the opponent back or to set up other techniques.
4. Axe kick - The axe kick is a powerful kick aimed at the opponent's head or neck. It is thrown with the heel of the foot and is delivered in a downward motion. The axe kick is usually used to surprise the opponent or to follow up after a combination.
Footwork Techniques
Footwork is an essential part of kickboxing, as it allows the fighter to move around the ring, avoid attacks, and set up their own attacks. Some of the basic footwork techniques in kickboxing include:
1. Shuffle step - The shuffle step is a quick and light step that is used to move around the ring. It involves moving one foot forward and quickly bringing the other up to meet it. The shuffle step can be used to set up attacks or to avoid an opponent's attacks.
2. Pivot step - The pivot step is a quick and light step that is used to change direction. It involves pivoting the ball of the foot and turning the body in the opposite direction. The pivot step can be used to set up attacks or to avoid an opponent's attacks.
3. Lateral step - The lateral step is a quick and light step that is used to move to the side.