Judo and kickboxing are sports practiced by people around the world. Judo, which means "the gently way," is a martial art created more than a century ago. Kickboxing is a mix of karate and boxing with a briefer history. Both teach techniques that can help you fend off attackers or win competitions. If you are not sure which sport is right for you, it might help to compare their histories and techniques.
Judo History
Judo was created in Japan in 1882 by Jigoro Kano. Kano studied several systems of jujitsu before creating judo, and included many of jujitsu's throwing and grappling techniques in his new style. He decided not to include many of jujitsu's hand and foot strikes. Kano's first school had nine students; today, judo is one of the world's most popular martial arts and became an Olympic sport in 1964.
Judo Techniques
Judo practitioners are fighters skilled at putting their opponents on the ground. When you sign up for judo lessons, you learn several types of takedowns. You can use your hips, hands, feet and legs to take your opponent to the floor. Once your opponent is down, there are numerous judo maneuvers you can perform. For example, you can perform a pin, joint lock or choke. Judo practitioners frequently use an opponent's uniform to choke him into submission.
Kickboxing History
The term "kickboxing" was created in the 1950s by Japanese boxing promoter Osamu Noguchi. He combined the arts of Muay Thai boxing and karate. Kickboxing developed in the United States in the 1970s when karate practitioners became frustrated with tournament scoring methods. The karate stylists decided to take their techniques into the ring where they could compete in full-contact matches.
Kickboxing Techniques
Kickboxing uses many of the techniques that are seen in boxing, karate and tae kwon do. You can use kicks like the roundhouse or front kick to hit your opponent from a distance. You also can use boxing techniques like the jab or uppercut to hit your opponent at closer range. These techniques are also taught in cardio kickboxing classes to give fitness enthusiasts a unique workout.
Speculation
Fight fans might debate whether a judo practitioner or a kickboxer would win in a fight. When considering the techniques of each fighting style, it appears that a judo stylist would fare better on the ground. Judo students are more skilled with grappling maneuvers. If the two fighters remain on their feet, a kickboxer's skill at kicks and punches might help him win. Of course, you also have to consider the roles that conditioning, endurance and luck play in a fight.
Considerations
If you are considering stepping onto a judo mat or into a kickboxing ring, you also should consider the potential for injury. Both sports can be rough, but judo allows you to tap out if you are stuck in a painful submission. In kickboxing, you can receive a kick to the head and be knocked out before you know what hit you.
Posted in: Kickboxing