Kickboxing is one of the youngest martial arts systems and one of the fastest growing. Kickboxing has been in existence since the early 60s. Its conception came about because of the desire of Martial Artists to test their skills against each other in a safe and controlled environment. In fact in the safe way and manner that Judo evolved from Jujitsu.

It requires a high level of fitness both mentally and physically and is a dynamic and effective Martial Art. It incorporates kicking, punching, sweeping and throwing. Kickboxing has been particularly successful over the last number of years in Great Britain and has produced a number of World/European Champions in their respective weight divisions.

Playing the game

In Kickboxing there are three main disciplines and All competitors must wear the appropriate safety equipment. Male: Head Guard, Mouth Guard, Shin Guard, Boots, Gloves and Groin Guard. Female: Head Guard, Mouth Guard, Chest Guard, Shin Guard, Boots, and Gloves. One referee and three judges score the competition.

The primary disciplines and styles of Kickboxing

Full Contact
The name speaks for itself; this form of competition is performed in a ring and primarily has similar rules to boxing. The main difference is that opponent may also use his legs to defend and attack. The competition is finished when a fighter is knocked out or TKO. If the competition ends after the three two minute rounds then the fighter who has scored on his opponent effectively and proficiently will be deemed to be the winner, in the event of a tied result the fighter whom was judged to be technically better will be given the decision

Light Contact
This competition is held on a matted area. The objective of this type of competition is that you hit your opponent with as many techniques as possible with control. The more complex and difficult the scoring technique the higher the score (See Semi Contact Scoring). If you hit your opponent without control you are penalised or even disqualified depending on the severity of the offence. The winner is judged by the person whom has scored and landed more techniques. In the event of a tied result the fighter whom was judged to be technically better will be given the decision after the 3 two minute rounds.

Semi Contact Points
By far the most popular discipline, this form of competition is run over three by two-minute rounds on a matted area. The objective of this competition is to penetrate your opponent’s defences and deliver an effective and controlled technique with your hands of legs. The scoring system is as follows:

Punch 1pt
Kick head 2pts
Kick body 1pt
Jumping kick, body 2pt, head 3pt
Sweep 1pt

Each time a fighter scores the match is stopped and the three judges score the technique, if two or three judges are in full agreement then a score is given. The objective for the fighter is to score as many points on his opponent as possible. The winner of the contest is the fighter with the highest score. In the event of a tie, time is extended by one minute. If the competition is still tied, it will then be decided by sudden death, the first fighter to score.

Clothing
The competitors wear loose fitting clothing, a pair of kicking pants and V neck tops are very popular, however T shirts are permitted in some circumstances, they must be a club T shirt.

Benefits of Kickboxing

Physical
If practiced regularly it will provide a cardiovascular workout.  It will help develop, muscle tone, strength, flexibility balance and concentration, it is considered to be an effective total body workout. In a recent study by US Fitness magazine it was proven that a kickboxing class can burn an impressive 800 calories an hour. It will help maintain weight and body fat controls and bone density. The skill taught can be used in self-defence, if needed.

Psychological
It is considered to be calming and relaxing.  It requires a high degree of concentration and focus to be able to deliver the multiple movements, punches and kicks. Focus is often on helping body and spirit feel centred and connected to each other.

Lifestyle Benefits
It can be practiced alone or with others. Group introduction is widely available.  It is accessible to people of wildly ranging ages and fitness levels.  Equipment in the initial stages is minimal and equipment is primarily inexpensive