Although kickboxing has been practised for quite some time, it has only lately become popular due to the interest it has garnered among models and celebrities. It was traditionally assumed that only those seriously pursuing competing in the sport would benefit from kickboxing classes, but that view has changed in the past several years.
Kickboxing is an excellent fitness activity because it combines cardio and strength training with, perhaps, more importantly, an element of fun. Due to its adaptability, this workout can be undertaken by people of varying fitness levels and experience. Even if you have never thrown a punch or kicked anything before, the instructor will assist you in getting started. Are you intrigued yet? Read on to find out whether this may be the impetus you need to start working out regularly:
What is Kickboxing?
Before signing up for a kickboxing session, you first need to know: “What is kickboxing?”
The stand-up fighting sport known as kickboxing is an offshoot of boxing, Muay Thai, and Karate. These principles of combat are mixed with music and rhythm in a kickboxing class to provide a fantastic aerobic and strength-building exercise.
Kickboxing’s 3 Essential Principles
Kickboxing comprises three fundamental aspects, and understanding these principles is essential to your kickboxing practice.
Boxing
Here is where you start using your arms and hands as weapons. By striking your opponent with your fists, you want to do them harm. It’s hard to find a more natural sport than boxing. Using your hands to strike should come naturally. This is why learning how to throw and block punches is usually the first thing taught to novice kickboxers.
Kicking
When you kick, you’re essentially wielding spears and swords at the end of your foot and shins. Common types of kicks in kickboxing are heel hook kicks, foot jabs, hook kicks, and sidekicks.
It’s important to remember that the kicking stance is distinct from the boxing stance. Because kicking requires longer reach and extension, the kicking stance sees the fighter leaning back. This is in contrast to the boxing fighting posture, in which the fighter leans forward to generate greater punching force.
Incorporating Kicks and Punches in Combat
The third and last component of kickboxing is developing the ability to coordinate your punches and kicks so that they set each other up. This is the most significant aspect of the sport. Many people new to kickboxing begin by concentrating only on hitting with their fists, then circle for a bit, and then strike with their feet.
While some kicking and some boxing are going on, this is hardly kickboxing. Practice and patience are required to master the art of combining kicks and punches into one seamless motion. If you keep at it, you’ll be able to throw punches and kicks like the legendary Van Damme.
What to Expect at Your First Kickboxing Class
Individualised Physical Preparation
Making it to your first kickboxing class might be nerve-wracking. Perhaps you’re nervous about seeming like a greenhorn in front of your peers. So, here’s the deal: don’t feel bad if it occurs. The other students in the class will be just as inexperienced as you.
Kickboxing is a sport that everyone can enjoy, regardless of their physical condition or prior experience. Learning the sport and becoming in shape takes time, so it’s better to take it easy at first. You can be certain that your teacher will challenge you physically without putting you in danger of getting hurt or doing anything else that might be detrimental to you.
Core Workout
This is going to be a tough but worthwhile practice regardless of your current skill level. Most people, based only on the name of the sport, believe that kickboxing only involves striking techniques such as kicking and punching. The strength behind such motions comes from your core, which has to be strengthened. You should be prepared to move and use your core muscles in new and sometimes uncomfortable ways.
Kickboxing London: Xen-Do Kickboxing workouts are great for more than just making you into a lethal fighting machine; they also reduce tension and enhance balance and coordination. Enjoy yourself while also relieving stress and improving your technique by joining the numerous people learning kickboxing in London. Check out Xen-Do if you are interested in learning more about London Kickboxing.
