Kickboxing Techniques

These kickboxing techniques may be quite basic but they form the foundation of this respected fighting system. Kickboxing is one of the most popular forms of martial arts and is an effective form of self defense. To properly use kickboxing techniques in the gym during a sparring session or in the streets in a street fight, these moves must be effectively used together.

1. Get the basics right. Basic kickboxing techniques form the bedrock of this martial art. If you perform these incorrectly, your fighting style may prove to be ineffective. Focus on perfecting these fundamental kickboxing techniques.

2. You must start with a strong fighting stance. Stand slightly sideways away from your opponent. A right handed fighter should stand with their left leg and shoulder forward. Knees must be bent slightly which will bring your stronger arm a little further back.

3. Protect your chin. Keep both hands up. This may be one of the most important kickboxing techniques. The right hand should be positioned by the side of the face while the left hand is placed in front of your head by a few inches. Be mindful that your elbows are nicely tucked in near your torso to protect yourself from body blows.

4. Relax when you engage your opponent. Relaxing in a sparring match or fight does not mean you should ease off and not pay attention. The whole point of keeping your body relaxed is to keep your body limber. This will enable you to react much quicker for any offensive or defensive moves.

5. Mind your breathing. Your body needs air when putting together combinations of kickboxing techniques. If you hold your breath during the execution of your combinations, you may soon be gasping for air. Try to get sufficient oxygen by breathing out with each punch or kick.

6. Master your jab. Much like Western Boxing, the jab is an integral part of your offense. Most punch combinations begin with a well placed jab. It is also an excellent defensive weapon as solid jabs can fend off an opponent, preventing him from mounting an attack of their own.

7. Use other punches as part of your arsenal. While a good jab is extremely effective, it lacks the power to inflict considerable damage. A “cross” is a punch thrown from the back shoulder which generates more power. A “hook” is punch effective at close range. The twisting motion from your hips will create a considerable amount of torque which makes for a very jarring punch. An “uppercut” aims to connect with your opponents chin by going through the space between your opponent's arms. A jab together with a combination of other punches makes quite a formidable sequence of blows.

8. Don't forget your kicks. While punches may be the more accurate offensive option for most fighters, kicks are definitely more powerful. A “front kick” works the same way as a jab. It keeps your opponent at bay and it can be employed to lead off a combination of other moves. The “turning kick” is performed by pivoting on the supporting leg while the weight and energy of the kicking leg hits its target. The “axe kick” is a little more advanced but is very potent. The leading kick goes up in an arching motion and goes down violently on your oppenent.

9. Good footwork is essential. Standing in one place makes you a very easy target. Moving around and being light on your feet will not only make it difficult for your opponent to catch you, it also makes it easier for you to launch your own kickboxing techniques and maximize the power behind your blows.

10. Keep practicing your moves. It may sound like a cliché but kickboxing is not just a way to keep fit, it is a bona fide self-defense system. Practicing your kickboxing techniques will not only improve your general health and well-being it may come in handy in a street fight if flight is not an option.