Friday, January 6, 2012

Kickboxing Safety & Moves for Absolute Beginners


Kickboxing is not only a popular martial art, but is also an extremely popular workout technique. The punches, kick moves and foot movements required in kickboxing will get your heart pumping and give you a cardio workout while also toning and building muscle. Kickboxing is a great workout to try with a friend, and is relatively easy to teach once you get started.
Equipment
Depending on how serious you want to get with your kickboxing routine, you'll need a variety of equipment. If you're on a budget, just get a set of comfortable workout clothes that allow good freedom of movement, especially in your arms and legs.
If you're looking for a more advanced workout, look into purchasing some type of kickboxing bag. You can find ones that hang from the ceiling, or if you're short on room or don't want a bag hanging in your living room, buy a bag with a weighted bottom that you can store when you're not using it. Many gyms also have kickboxing equipment and facilities you can use.
If you're going to be sparring, invest in some gloves and headgear, and maybe even elbow and knee guards for when you hit the mat.
Beginner Moves
Most kickboxing moves are relatively simple and don't require much training, but they will take some practice to perfect in order to round out your form.
The basic moves in kickboxing are punching and, of course, kicking. Basic punches include the jab, a simple punch where you extend your arm straight in front of you while keeping your body upright; the cross punch, where you punch across your body; and the uppercut, where you bring your fist down as if you are going to punch low, then bring it up and through the object you are trying to hit.
Kicks include the roundhouse, where you stand facing your target and then swivel your body counterclockwise away from the target and kick with your left foot (you can also pivot clockwise and kick with your right foot); and the front kick, where you bend a knee, bring it up to your chest, then kick out at a target with the ball of the foot.
Safety
always keep safety in mind. Use a mouth guard even if you aren't using any other equipment or practicing with someone else. Make sure that the equipment you use is safe and secure, especially if you're using a bag mounted to the ceiling. And before starting any new workout routine, especially one that can get as intense as kickboxing, consult with your doctor to see if you are in good physical shape to take on such a strenuous workout.
Sparring
After you've mastered some of the basic moves and safety of kickboxing, head into the ring and use some of your moves. If you've never sparred before, make sure to go over with your sparring partner what kind of moves you are going to be trying and what level of intensity you're shooting for. Don't try and do too much too fast, and spar with someone who is more experienced in order to prevent injury.

 
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