Martial arts sports such as kickboxing and Muay Thai have made breakthroughs into mainstream fitness in recent years, especially with more women turning to these activities to get a good workout.
It is easy to assume that these two sports are almost alike, but there are a few differences between Muay Thai and Kickboxing in their techniques and methods.
Kickboxing began emerging as a sport in the U.S. in the 1970s when karate practitioners were looking for an alternative system that would allow full-contact kicks and punches in competitions.
Originated in Thailand, Muay Thai draws from its rich cultural heritage where a ceremonial dance is often performed before a match. The shorts worn by its practitioners is a distinguished aspect of the martial art.
These two martial arts largely differ in the techniques and methods used:
| Kickboxing |
vs |
Muay Thai |
- Boxing based, active hands, angles/movement and volume combos
- Four-point striking system with punches and kicks
- A wide range of kicks that land using the foot, lower shin and middle shin
- Fluid and defensive strikes, kickboxers use footwork and angles to set up attacks
|
|
- Timing based, relies on quick and powerful counters
- Eight-point striking system with elbows, knees, punches and kicks
- Fighters land blows using middle portion of the their shins
- Simple and powerful strikes, fighters moving primarily forward
|
Here are some of the commonalities between kickboxing and Muay Thai that make them good workouts for you:
- Enjoyable cardio activity that allows you to burn 500 to 800 calories per hour
- Total body workout
- Strength training
- Learning footwork, setups and techniques for self-defence
Kickboxing's emphasis on strategic movement and defence movements could offer beginners with better self-defence training. Make your choice based on your preference and tolerance for striking styles.
Whether you are set out to learn self-defence, lose weight or just to stay fit, both kickboxing and Muay Thai are great martial art sports that offer great benefits for your physical and mental health.
Sources:
- Bull Muay Thai – The difference between Muay Thai and Kickboxing
- 10 Differences Between Muay Thai and Kickboxing
Author
Cigna Healthcare Team
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