Back To Basics | Technical Beginner's Guide To Kickboxing

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide to the basics of kickboxing, ideal for beginners. It covers essential techniques including stance, guard, punches, kicks, knees, and defense strategies. By mastering these fundamentals, you can build a solid foundation for your kickboxing practice.

Step 1: Establish Your Stance

• Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.
• Keep your dominant foot slightly back for balance.
• Distribute your weight evenly on both feet.
• Bend your knees slightly to maintain mobility.
• Keep your hips square and relaxed.

Step 2: Learn the Guard Position

• Raise your hands to protect your face, with elbows close to your body.
• Position your fists near your chin.
• Ensure your shoulders are relaxed but ready to react.
• This position helps defend against incoming strikes while preparing you to throw punches.

Step 3: Master Basic Punches

• Jab:
  • Extend your lead hand straight out, rotating your fist as you punch.
  • Aim for your opponent’s face or body.
• Cross:
  • Rotate your back foot and hip as you throw your rear hand.
  • Keep your elbow in to protect your body.
• Hook:
  • Use a bent arm to swing your fist horizontally towards the target.
  • Pivot your foot to generate power.

Step 4: Practice Kicks

• Front Kick:
  • Lift your knee high, extending your leg forward.
  • Aim with the ball of your foot.
• Roundhouse Kick:
  • Pivot on your supporting foot while swinging your leg in a circular motion.
  • Strike with the shin or instep.
• Side Kick:
  • Turn your supporting foot outward and extend your leg sideways.
  • Use the heel to strike the target.

Step 5: Incorporate Knees

• Step forward with one foot while lifting the opposite knee.
• Aim to strike with the knee against your opponent's body or head.
• Keep your hands up to protect your face during the move.

Step 6: Understand Hand Defense

• Use your arms to block incoming punches:
  • Parry: Redirect the punch with your hand.
  • Cover: Use your gloves to shield your face.
• Practice moving your head to evade punches.

Step 7: Implement Leg Defense

• Check: Raise your knee to block incoming kicks.
• Evade: Step away or pivot to avoid strikes to your legs.

Step 8: Shadow Boxing

• Combine all techniques into a fluid routine:
  • Start with your stance and guard.
  • Incorporate punches, kicks, and knee strikes.
  • Use footwork to move around as you practice.
• Focus on form and technique rather than speed or power.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you will establish a strong foundation in kickboxing. Practice each element regularly to improve your skills and build confidence. As you progress, consider exploring intermediate and advanced techniques for further development. Enjoy your kickboxing journey!