Kickboxing and Muay Thai are two martial arts disciplines that both involve striking techniques and are known for their intense, fast-paced action. There are some key differences between the two disciplines that make each unique. Whether you’re a fan of martial arts or want to give it a go, understanding the difference between these two disciplines will help you enjoy it even more.
One significant difference between kickboxing and muay thai is the origins in which they both originated. Kickboxing is considered a modern martial art, being created in the 1950s in Japan. It was designed by incorporating aspects from traditional forms such as karate and muay thai with the western style of boxing. Muay Thai on the other hand, has been around since the 13th Century, and was developed in Thailand as a form of close-combat fighting. Although muay thai is considered more of a traditional martial arts form than kickboxing, both have adapted from their original form to a more modernized form which is what you see practiced today.
Both Muay Thai and Kickboxing have similar techniques, being that they both involve striking with the arms and legs. However, there are key differences in the way that both disciplines are trained and executed. Muay Thai and Kickboxing are trained through practicing technical skills, sparring and pad work.
Muay Thai drills focus heavily on striking techniques including punching, kicking, knees and elbows. Muay Thai is often trained as a self-defense practice as it combines movements through those 4 parts of the body.
Kickboxing drills practice striking such as punching, kicking and knee strikes. There is also a large focus on footwork and movement drills as it is important to have the agility to move around the ring. Although the two disciplines have similarities in striking techniques, they are differentiated by execution and technical drills.
Another differentiator between kickboxing and muay thai is the rules around technique, competition, and uniform. As muay thai incorporates the use of elbows and knees, clinching is permitted and is used to put an opponent in a position where trained movements can be implemented. In kickboxing there is a larger focus on kicking and punching, so muay thai techniques such as clinching and use of elbows are prohibited.
Both disciplines have similarities in regards to how matches are structed, being that they both consist of 3 to 5 rounds where each round lasts 2-3 minutes. The uniform required for muay thai consists of shorts, lightweight gloves, and ankle wraps. Whilst kickboxing competitors wear gloves, shin guards, and sometimes head gear. These uniform differences are reflective of the striking and defensive techniques that are implemented in each discipline.
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