What Is Kickboxing?

Modern competitive kickboxing actually started in the 1970s, when American karate experts arranged competitions that allowed full-contact kicks and punches that had been banned in karate. Due to health and safety concerns, padding and protective clothing and safety rules were introduced into the sport over the years, which led to the various forms of competitive kickboxing practiced in the United States today. The different styles of kick boxing differ in the techniques used and the amount of physical contact that is allowed between the competitors.

The kickboxing that I have developed stems from my experience of fighting in Karate competitions in England in the 1970’s, the style is called Zen Shin Contact Karate, as I feel that this name reflects its origins perfectly.

Kelly Rose WKA Champion July 2006

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KcyUJmyuN_Q

In the early 1970’s Karate competitions were highly competitive and the contact involved was high and therefore there were many injuries. Zen Shin Contact Karate maintains the high competitive spirit however we incorporate the use of protective clothing to avoid injury. We also maintain a large proportion of the Art of Karate which also involves respecting your fellow student, showing modesty while maintaining self confidence and self awareness.

The Basics

Before you decide to jump in and sign up for a class, you should keep a few basic guidelines in mind:

• Know your current fitness level. Kickboxing is a high-intensity, high-impact form of exercise,. When you begin kickboxing, allow yourself to be a beginner by working at your own pace and not overexerting yourself to the point of exhaustion. Fitness will soon improve as you train regularly twice a week.
• Check it out before you sign up. Before you commit yourself to a particular Martial Art, first try out a couple of classes. You need to get a feel for the dojo, the other students and most importantly your instructor. The class should incorporate a mixture of people and abilities which the skilful instructor will be able to manage with ease. You should finish the class tired but energised.

Find a class act. Look for an instructor who has both a high-level belt in martial arts and a track record of students who have accomplished their goals. Observe the respect that the students give to their instructor , and the instructor gives to the students, this is a great sign of a disciplined dojo which will get positive results for its students. Anyone can practice Kickboxing, we may all have different starting points but all students can achieve with a certain amount of dedication and commitment (this only needs to be 2 lessons a week)

• Comfort is key. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows your arms and legs to move easily in all directions. Kick boxers do not wear anything on their feet when they train, however Cardio Kickboxing is different due to the aerobic element , therefore a cross training shoe would be fine.
• Start slowly and don't overdo it. The key to a good kickboxing workout is controlled movement. Overextending yourself by kicking too high or locking your arms and legs during movements can cause pulled muscles and tendons and sprained knee or ankle joints. Start with low kicks as you slowly learn proper kickboxing technique. This is very important for beginners, who are more prone to developing injuries while attempting quick, complicated kickboxing moves.
• Drink up. Drink plenty of fluids before, and after your class to quench your thirst and keep yourself hydrated.
• Talk to your doctor. It's always a good idea to see your doctor and have a complete physical exam before you begin any type of exercise programme - especially one with a lot of aerobic activity like kickboxing. This is extremely important if you have any chronic medical conditions such as asthma or diabetes or are very overweight. If you have any medical conditions you should inform your instructor in confidence.

Why Kickboxing?

Besides keeping your body fit, kickboxing has tons of other benefits. According to a study by the ACE, you can burn anywhere from 350 to 450 calories an hour with kickboxing!

Kickboxing also reduces and relieves stress. Its rigorous workout - controlled punching and kicking movements carried out with the discipline and skills required for martial arts - can do wonders for feelings of frustration and anger. Practicing kickboxing moves can also help to improve balance, flexibility, coordination, and endurance.

Kickboxing is also a great way to get a total body workout while learning simple self-defense moves. Kickboxing fans say the sport helps them to feel more empowered and confident.