Are you looking for your new favorite way to workout? Click here to find out the difference between Muay Thai vs kickboxing to decide which is best for you.
Are you interested in martial arts and wondering what some of the benefits are? Want to know more about Muay Thai vs kickboxing differences?
Martial arts has numerous benefits if you have an open mind. You'll improve your physical and mental health, gain discipline, and boost confidence. However, if you've yet to make up your mind, it's worthwhile knowing the different martial arts.
Muay Thai vs kickboxing is a common discussion among martial arts fans. In this article, we have weighed up Muay Thai vs kickboxing's differences. This will help you decide which martial art suits you. Read on.
Origins and Cultural Background
Muay Thai originated in Thailand and has deep cultural roots in the country. It has a long history and is considered the national sport of Thailand.
Kickboxing is a hybrid combat sport that evolved from various martial arts styles, including Muay Thai, karate, and boxing. It has gained popularity in different parts of the world, particularly in Japan and the United States.
Techniques
Muay Thai emphasizes the use of eight striking points: fists, elbows, knees, and shins. It allows the use of clinching techniques to control and strike opponents at close range. Muay Thai practitioners are known for their devastating knee and elbow strikes.
Kickboxing primarily focuses on punches and kicks. The use of elbows and knees for strikes is generally not allowed in most kickboxing rule sets. Kickboxing techniques are often derived from Western boxing and various kicking styles, such as karate and Taekwondo.
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Rules and Competition Formats
In traditional Muay Thai competitions, fighters wear gloves and shorts. They can strike using all eight limbs and are allowed to clinch their opponents. Traditional Muay Thai matches are often accompanied by a ceremonial dance called the Wai Khru Ram Muay.
Kickboxing has various rule sets depending on the organization and country. Generally, fighters wear gloves and shorts, and they can use punches and kicks, but not elbows or knees. Some variations of kickboxing allow low kicks, while others restrict the target area to above the waist.
Fighting Stance
Muay Thai fighters typically adopt a squared-off stance, where their feet are positioned wider apart. This provides a strong base for delivering powerful strikes and maintaining balance during clinching.
Kickboxers often use a more bladed stance, with the lead foot turned slightly outward. This stance allows for better mobility, quicker lateral movement, and effective kicking techniques.
Muay Thai vs Kickboxing: A Comparison
The difference between Muay Thai vs Kickboxing is clear - both combative and athletic sports with a long and storied history. Muay Thai is more aggressive, whereas Kickboxing is more focused on striking.
Whether you are looking for a solid foundation or focused on fun fitness, both styles can help you achieve long-term training success. If you are looking for an exciting and challenging sport, why not try both and experience the difference for yourself?
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