Boxing Vs. Kickboxing

Practicing boxing and kickboxing techniques can provide a strong cardio workout.

Boxing and kickboxing have many common aspects, yet they employ different techniques and training methods. A boxer relies on simple punching techniques delivered from different angles, alternating between speed strikes and power punches to confuse and dominate his opponent. A kickboxer carefully measures the distance between himself and his opponent to strike with his legs and then move in close to use his hands. Both sports provide great cardiovascular workouts and enhance fighters' timing and balance.

Boxing Techniques

A cross punch is delivered across the boxer's body.

All strikes in boxing are made with the knuckle area of the closed fist. The jab is a snapping punch using the front hand that can keep an opponent off balance and set up power punches. Power punches include the cross, which appropriately crosses the boxer's body in a straight line to the target, and the uppercut, which is delivered vertically. According to the website "Boxing Site," boxers with tall, thin builds tend to benefit from quick techniques thrown in rapid combinations, whereas boxers with short or stocky builds tend to benefit from fighting in close and delivering power punches to the body and head. All punches must be delivered "above the belt," which is signified by the top of the boxer's trunks.

Kickboxing Techniques

Kickboxing combines techniques used in boxing and karate.

The website "World of Combat" describes kickboxing as a combination of boxing and karate. Kickboxers have many techniques at their disposal. Along with the basic boxing punches, a kickboxer can deliver a "back fist," which uses the top of the hand as the striking tool. A "spinning back fist" is delivered when the fighter twists his entire body in place and uses its momentum to add power to the strike. He can also use a "hammer" strike, which occurs when the fighter clenches his fist and strikes with the bottom of his hand. Kicking techniques include the front kick, which is thrust out in a straight line, usually to the opponent's midsection, and the roundhouse, which is delivered horizontally to the opponent's head or ribcage.

Muay Thai

Muay Thai allows strikes to the legs.

Developed in Thailand, muay Thai, also called Thai boxing, is an aggressive version of kickboxing that allows the fighter to use more striking tools and to attack more vulnerable targets. Along with the basic kicks and punches, a muay Thai fighter can strike his opponent with his elbows and his knees. He can also attack his opponent's legs, usually kicking the thighs and the calves.

Benefits of Training

Kickboxing training makes legs muscles more limber.

Whether or not you plan to face an actual opponent in the ring, training in boxing or kickboxing has great health benefits. Because both sports require continuous movement, training provides a strong cardio workout and builds endurance. Boxing helps to build muscles, develop reflexes and enhance hand-eye coordination. Kickboxing develops strength, stamina and elasticity of the joints and muscles.

Proper Equipment

The use of proper equipment lowers the risk of injury.

The use of proper protective equipment lowers the injury rate during boxing or kickboxing training. Regulation hand wraps worn under the gloves protect the small bones in the hands, whether the fighter is facing an opponent or simply training with the heavy bag. Kickboxers wear padded boots and shin guards to protect the legs while training. All fighters should wear a fitted mouth guard, not only to protect their teeth, but to teach them how to breath through their noses. Breathing through the mouth is exhausting, and keeping the mouth open while fighting can lead to serious injury if the fighter takes a shot to the jaw.

References

• World of Combat: Kickboxing Rules
• Boxing Site