Kickboxing
Kickboxing
Kickboxing is a name used for several boxing like martial arts which uses both hands and feet for striking the opponent. Kickboxing can sometimes be considered as a set of sporting rules under which other martial arts are practiced on the boxing ring. In other words there are several types of kickboxing with different rules. In addition kickboxing exercises constitute a popular physical conditioning and fitness regime.
The word kickboxing was originally used by Japanese national Osamu Noguchi for the derivative form of Thai boxing or Muay Thai he created in 1950s. Generally only the Japanese and American kick boxers refer to themselves as such, others refer to themselves by the particular martial art they practice. These two forms of kickboxing were developed mainly from Muay Thai and Karate.
Some of the most widespread forms of kickboxing are the following. Thai boxing known as Muay Thai is a traditional martial art in Thailand. It is highly popular both inside and outside that country and feature strikes using knee and elbow as well. Many other forms of kickboxing derive from this. Japanese kickboxing is similar to Thai boxing with different points scoring system. It was developed starting around1950s by Osamu Noguchi. It became popular in Japan for several decades but later waned. However after Kazuyoshi Ishii created K-1 special kickboxing rules in 1993, Japanese kickboxing became popular again. Full Contact Karate or American (and Australian) kickboxing sometimes considered Free style kickboxing is a combination of Muay Thai, Japanese kickboxing and karate techniques. It features strikes above the hips with fists and feet but use of elbows, knees and shins are not generally allowed. Fight is conducted through a series of rounds (three to five) lasting two to three minutes with rests in between. However fighters and managers can agree on the rules for specific fights. Combatants usually wear padding. Khmer kickboxing (Pradal Serey) is considered a forerunner of Thai boxing originating in Khmer kingdom now in Cambodia. Burmese Kickboxing called Lethwei allows any part of the body to be used to strike any part of opponent?s body. Chinese kickboxing called Sanshou or Sanda is a part of Wushu or Kung fu and features throws and take downs using arms and legs. Combat continues even after the fight has reached the ground until certain conditions are fulfilled Shoot boxing is another form of Japanese kickboxing which feature throwing and fighting on the ground like Chinese kickboxing. Indian kickboxing known as Adithada feature striking with elbows, and knees and forehead. French kickboxing known as Savate, unlike others forms of kickboxing allows the use of shoes Filipino Kickboxing or Sayaw ng Kamatayan (Dance of Death) also called Yaw Yan, is a form of Thai boxing which feature hip rotation and downward kicks
Above list is hardly exhaustive .there are many other forms and derivatives of kickboxing. Depending in the form both men and women take part in this sport.
Kickboxing being a term that refers to variety of martial arts practiced with different rules and styles there isn?t any one organization to govern the sport. Each form of the art has its own organizations and standards
Fitness Kickboxing has also been widely adapted as a physical conditioning and toning exercise regime. This form does not include contact between practitioners and resemble 0aerobics routines. Fitness experts are of the opinion that these exercises provide an overall cardiovascular workout for the body