About Kickboxing

Kickboxing is a form of martial arts that involves using kicks and punches to compete with, or defeat, an opponent. Kickboxing may also be performed as part of an aerobic exercise routine, with an emphasis on fitness instead of competition. Both competitive and aerobic kickboxing provide numerous health benefits, but kickboxing is an intensive sport that should be practiced carefully to avoid pain and injury.

History

Kickboxing first appeared in Asia more than 2,000 years ago, but the sport did not become competitive until the 1970s when competitions were arranged in America that permitted full-contact punches and kicks. Such contact was previously disallowed in karate and most other martial arts. Due to safety concerns, protective gear and strict safety rules were introduced to prevent injury and enable fair competition. Kickboxing increased in popularity over the next decade and became an established sport in many European countries. Aerobic kickboxing is becoming increasingly popular around the world as a form of fitness training.

Types

There are two main types of kickboxing practiced today: competitive kickboxing and aerobic kickboxing. Competitive kickboxing is similar to other forms of martial arts, and generally involves a graded process of instruction and ability. Emphasis is on technique and power, but overall fitness is an important part of the process. The three general styles of competitive kickboxing include points, continuous and knock out. Aerobic kickboxing, also known as cardio kickboxing, combines martial arts, boxing and aerobics to increase physical conditioning and stamina and promote muscle toning and strength. Aerobic kickboxing does not involve contact between participants and is generally set to music.

Equipment

Kickboxing gear depends on the type of kickboxing being practiced. Aerobic kickboxing generally requires no specific gear or equipment, other than standard exercise attire that permits free movement. Full-contact, competitive kickboxers are required to wear shorts and a full assortment of protective gear, including mouth-guards, hand-wraps, boxing gloves, skin-pads, groin-guards and helmets. Competitors under the age of 16 years must also wear a protective helmet to prevent brain injury. Female kickboxers are required to wear a fitted tank top and chest protection in addition to the standard protective gear worn by men.

Benefits

Both types of kickboxing provide similar benefits. In addition to relieving stress and toning muscles, kickboxing burns 400 or more calories per hour, according to the American Council on Exercise. Kickboxing is also an excellent method of self-defense, and techniques from kickboxing are often included in most self-defense training courses. The level of aerobic activity involved in both competitive and aerobic kickboxing provides benefits to the cardiovascular system, improves lung function, strengthens bones and decreases the risk of osteoporosis, and improves overall health.

Considerations

Kickboxing is a high intensity activity, and should be entered into gradually to reduce the risk of injury. Aerobic kickboxing should generally be preceded by less intensive forms of cardio training, and competitive kickboxing should only be done by healthy, well-trained athletes. Those new to kickboxing would benefit tremendously by taking a kickboxing class prior to entering competitions, regardless of perceived ability level.