Kickboxing is a combat sport structured in weight classes. The kinds of exercises you perform while training in kickboxing won't give you great mass or enormous muscles. However, a kickboxer trains to become strong and powerful without the extra bulk. With proper kickboxing training, you can build strong, lean muscles while simultaneously learning how to structure your movements for the most efficient use of the power in those muscles.
Step 1
Find a kickboxing class that focuses on competition and fighting in the ring. Cardio kickbox programs are fine weight-loss and fitness workouts, but they won't focus on delivering a force payload the way a competitive program will.
Step 2
Work hard during the calisthenics and other resistance exercise portions of your kickboxing training sessions. During each session, focus on engaging the muscles of your core and hips. Kickboxing moves derive maximum power by flowing from this area of your body. The stronger it is, the more powerful your movements will be.
Step 3
Practice kickboxing "power moves" on the heavy bag whenever you have the opportunity. These include hook punches, wheel kicks and front knee strikes. When practicing each move, focus on delivering each strike with proper form. Subtle points like the angle of your supporting foot can make a difference of hundreds of foot-pounds of force.
Step 4
Ask your trainer for specific advice about improving your power with your strikes. Live instruction from a qualified coach will give you the kind of feedback you need to fix small errors in your form.
Step 5
Incorporate kickboxing form into all movements you make that require power. For example, you can engage your footwork and core support when opening a heavy door, or use kickboxing body alignment principles while lifting weights. The more you incorporate kickboxing technique into your daily movements and routine, the more powerful you will feel and become.
Posted in: Kickboxing