KICKBOXING

Kickboxing is a sport that blends the kicks of karate with the punches of boxing. Fitness enthusiasts practice this sport as an aerobic workout, while competitive kick boxers practice it against rivals in the ring. There are also kick boxers who practice it for self defense.

In the 1950s, a Japanese boxing promoter coined the term “kickboxing” to refer to a combination of karate, and Muay Thai boxing. It became a popular sport in 1979 when ESPN began broadcasting kickboxing matches.

Kickboxing matches are between three to twelve rounds; and each round is some 2 to 3 minutes long. Rivals are segregated based on their weight, and the result of a match is determined by a knockout, draw or decision. To disorient and defeat their rivals, competitive kick boxers employ different punching and kicking techniques.

Since Kick boxers must be conditioned well to both take and deliver blows during the fight, they need cardiovascular endurance training and intense muscular endurance. So, they follow very rigorous workouts in preparation for the matches.

The governing bodies for kickboxing include World Kickboxing Association, World Kickboxing Network, International Combat Organization, International Sport Karate Association,  International Kickboxing Federation, World Sport Kickboxing Federation,  World Association of Kickboxing Organizations, etc.