What Is Kickboxing?

Have you ever been so mad you could punch something? Maybe you even did, taking your aggression out on a pillow or couch cushion. Although this impromptu aggression might feel satisfying in the moment, there's an even better way to use physical action to keep your stress levels at bay: kickboxing. Kickboxing is a form of martial arts derived from karate. It borrows moves from multiple types of martial arts including full-contact karate, Muay Thai, and boxing.

Although the name implies kicking as a priority, this type of martial art uses both hands and feet as points of contact. Kicks and punches are both used during kickboxing. Unlike Muay Thai, elbows and knees are generally not used, and the points of contact are limited to the hands and feet.

Kickboxing is a popular professional sport, similar to MMA or boxing. Many cities have martial arts studios that offer specialized classes in kickboxing. However, with its high energy vibe kickboxing is quite popular with the general public as well. Many gyms offer non-contact kickboxing classes as aerobic exercise and with good reason. There are lots of benefits for using kickboxing as a form of exercise.