Types of Kickboxing

Modern forms of kickboxing appeared in the 1970s when full-contact punches and kicks were first allowed in karate competitions. Kickboxing can be performed at a competitive level, as self-defense, or as a workout routine. Differing techniques and amount of physical contact define the different types of kickboxing.

  1. Chinese Kickboxing

    • Chinese kickboxing, also known as Shaolin Boxing or Shorinji Karate, originated in the Shaolin Monastery. You are allowed to punch with your fists, kick with you feet, and strike with open hands and elbows. It is one of the oldest forms of kickboxing.

    Thai Bo Power Kickboxing

    • Thai Bo Power kickboxing combines Chinese boxing, Thai boxing, American boxing and Karate kicking to give participants an aerobic and cardio workout. Thai Bo Power kickboxing can also provide an effective toning workout when combined with yoga stretches and heavy bag-work.

    K-1 Kickboxing

    • Founded in Tokyo, Japan, and currently practiced all over the world as a contact sport, K-1 kickboxing is another accumulative martial art form. K-1 combines techniques from Karate, Taekwondo, Muay Thai, San Shou, American kick boxing, Western boxing, and other striking arts.

    American Kickboxing

    • American kickboxing, also known as Full-Contact kickboxing, is a combat sport. A combination of Karate kicks and boxing punches, it was invented in 1970. While American kickboxing allows full contract blows with the fists and feet, participants are not allowed to strike below the waist. This form of kickboxing is known to focus on speed, motion strategies and footwork.

    Aerobic Dance Kickboxing

    • The purpose of Aerobic Dance kickboxing is solely for exercise; it is not meant for self-defense. This style of kickboxing uses the general motions of Karate and kickboxing punches and kicks but does not require correct techniques used in those martial arts. Performed on bags or in the air, Aerobic Dance kickboxing is usually done with music.