According to Kickboxing.com, kickboxing emerged in the 1970s for American martial artists who grew disenfranchised with the strict rules of Karate competitions that didn't allow for full contact kicks or punches. Kickboxing utilizes a combination of kicks, kick blocks, punches, sparring, shadow boxing and wood breaking under professional supervision for either practice or competitive tournaments.
Standard Stance
Step 1
Stand with your feet together and your hands your sides to begin.
Step 2
Turn your right foot out so that your feet form a 90 degree angle with your ankles together.
Step 3
Step forward with your left leg to about shoulder width apart. Place a slightly larger percentage of your weight on your front leg. Poise your back leg so that you are slightly on the ball of your foot.
Step 4
Raise your arms so that your fists are at eye level and to either side of your head from a front view. Keep your left fist extended towards your opponent by half an arms length and your right fist just in front of your head. Point your elbows toward the ground.
Step 5
Hunch your head so that your shoulders can protect your chin and neck.
Rear Leg Thai Kick to Lead Leg
Step 1
Stand in a standard stance for Muay Thai Kickboxing.
Step 2
Push your momentum off the ball of your back foot towards your opponent.
Step 3
Swing your hips counterclockwise to increase power in your kick. Swing your left shoulder counterclockwise as well to help create power. Keep the ball of your left foot in contact with the ground. Extend your right arm towards your opponent to prevent them from closing distance with you.
Step 4
Contact your opponent on the outside of their thigh on their left leg with your shin. Aim your kick through their leg for a solid connection.
Step 5
Keep your posture as upright as possible. Keep your right shoulder up to protect your face and neck.
Muay Thai Jab
Step 1
Stand in a standard Muay Thai Kickboxing stance.
Step 2
Shift your weight to your forward foot.
Step 3
Punch your left arm towards your opponent's chin. Use your shoulder to generate power; do not twist your hips or feet into the punch.
Step 4
Twist your left arm over 45 degrees so that your palm is facing downward. Tighten your fist just before impact with your opponent.
Step 5
Strike your opponent using the knuckles of your index and middle fingers. Keep your right hand up to protect your face and neck.
Tips and Warnings
- The best way to learn any martial art is to seek training from a master or licensed teacher. You can find teachers in your area by an internet search or by searching through a phonebook for your area.
- Stretch before performing martial arts. Failure to limber up can lead to ligament or tendon damage.
Things You'll Need
- 8' x 8' clear area
References
- "Muay Thai Unleashed"; Erich Krauss and Glen Cordoza; 2006
- Kickboxing: History of Kickboxing
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