Kickboxing is a full-contact combat sport that has its roots in Japanese karate and Thailand's Muay Thai, two martial arts that feature kicking and varied striking. While boxing is limited to only punching, kickboxing allows for kicks and shin strikes, adding a level of excitement not found in traditional pugilism.
History
Kickboxing originated in the United States during the 1970s. American karate competitors grew frustrated with the strict regulations used during tournaments, especially the rules prohibiting full contact. This frustration gave birth to kickboxing. Early competitions were staged on open mats, and safety precautions, including wearing gloves, were adopted to limit the injury risk.
Types
There are three main types of kickboxing. The first is "light contact," which is like a sparring session. All kickboxing techniques are used, but the strikes are strictly controlled and no knockdowns are scored. Semi-contact kickboxing is basically light contact kickboxing, with a point scoring system. Each kick to the head scores three points, while kicks to the body earn two points and landed punches score one point. Finally, full-contact kickboxing is the sport's professional version, featuring forceful blows meant to knock out the opponent.
Features
Kickboxing features a variety of punching and kicking techniques. The most common punches employed are the jab, cross, hook and uppercut, which are the same strikes found in boxing. Kickboxing also allows for backfists, or blows with the back of the hand. Kickboxing's most popular kicks are the push kick, front kick, crescent kick, side kick and roundhouse.
Considerations
In American kickboxing, competitors wear ten-ounce gloves. Professional kickboxers wear gloves and a pair of shorts; their feet are not protected at all. In amateur kickboxing, padded headgear and foot pads are worn to prevent injuries. American kickboxing allows strikes with the hands and feet, and all blows must land above the hip. The use of knees and elbows is prohibited. Shin strikes aren't forbidden, but they're seldom seen. Different rules may apply, however, depending on the organization or governing body. For instance, international kickboxing often allows Muay Thai clinching, knees and elbows.
Famous Ties
The first kickboxing superstars to emerge from the sport's early tournaments were Joe Lewis, Bill Wallace, Jeff Smith and Benny "The Jet" Urquidez. Before competing in mixed martial arts, legendary UFC light heavyweight champion Chuck Liddell also competed in kickboxing, posting a 20-2 record in various organizations.
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