Muay Thai vs. Kickboxing: Which one is Better?

Muay Thai and kickboxing are both fierce fighting sports. They are martial arts styles that use diverse boxing and kicking techniques. Most people think they're similar since they have nearly identical fighting styles and stances, but they're actually very different, with rich histories and numerous aspects of fighting.

Both arts are highly effective in MMA competitions. Are Muay Thai and Kickboxing really that different? Is Muay Thai Better Than Kickboxing? These questions in your mind might be causing trouble to you when choosing between Muay Thai and Kickboxing. Here we will find out about their key differences that will make it easier for you to decide your fighting style and start your journey as an elite MMA fighter today.

Muay Thai vs Kickboxing: Origin

History of Muay Thai

From its beginnings as a self-defense method, Muay Thai evolved from Muay Boran. It was an ancient fighting strategy utilized by Siamese soldiers in the 13th century. Today, it is an official striking combat sport. It is sometimes referred to as "Thai Boxing" because of its Thai cultural origins and "The Art of 8 Limbs" because of its 8-point hitting strategy.

History of Kickboxing

Kickboxing began when Karate and Muay Thai fighters fought against each other. They combined moves from both and added some western boxing techniques. That's how Kickboxing originated.

It began in Japan in the 1900s and evolved into a more modern sport with a point fighting system and full contact known as American Kickboxing now.

Kickboxing involves using your hands and legs to perform both high and low kicks. It is a 4-point fighting system in which it is illegal to use elbows or knees. Using it several times on your opponent can disqualify you.

5 Kickboxing and Muay Thai Key Differences

Kickboxing

  • Kickboxing has more aggressive forward movements involved, with volume combos.
  • Kickboxers emphasize more on footwork, staying on toes and head movement.
  • Clinching is not important in kickboxing because knee and elbow strikes are not allowed in it.
  • Kickboxers strike with their foot instead of their shin by bending their leg up from the knee.
  • Their training primarily focuses on footwork agility drills, high intensity cardio workout to improve quickness and stamina 

 

Muay Thai

  • Muay Thai relies highly on counter attacks and defensive movements.
  • Muay Thai fighters usually take a more composed, grounded stance keeping the head in the center.
  • Having a strong clinching technique is essential in Muay Thai for elbow, knee, and sweep attacks.
  • Muay Thai fighters don’t bend their knees when kicking, but rather keep the leg relaxed and hit powerful kicks with their lower shin.
  • Their training usually focuses highly on shin conditioning, putting in a lot of training to make their shins strong so they can kick with force.

 

Which One Is Better For Self Defense?

When it comes to street self-defense, Muay Thai typically has an advantage over kickboxing. But this isn't always the case because it also depends upon how good you are. But generally, Muay Thai fighters have more options.  They are able to elbow, knee, and punch you. That is enough tools to work with if you get into a real fight. Plus, those knees and elbows really hurt and most people don't see them coming, they are quite unexpected.

Benefits of Muay Thai and Kickboxing

Both Muay Thai and Kickboxing offer numerous health benefits. Muay Thai enhances cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and improves flexibility and endurance. Kickboxing, on the other hand, provides a full-body workout that boosts coordination, speed, and agility.

Martial arts training cultivates discipline. Plus, it greatly increases confidence, and mental strength. While kickboxing's quickness and strategic components help fighters develop mental sharpness and focus, Muay Thai's emphasis on determination and toughness helps fighters create a strong mindset.

you can also read this article : the top 10 gloves for boxing or muay thai

So Which One Is Right For You?

They're both excellent, and we suggest trying them both to determine which works best for you. And they both offer great benefits to your health. If you are still unsure to pick the right choice you should ask yourself a couple of questions. Why do you want to learn? Is it to accomplish your dream of becoming a MMA champion, to protect yourself from bullies or your family from predators or just to improve discipline in your life? These answers will help you to decide what to choose. Most people prefer to learn Muay Thai for self defense and personal growth. Kickboxing is ideal for those looking to advance their boxing careers and compete professionally. What actually matters is that you enjoy and feel motivated to train consistently. Trust the training process, stay committed and improve your skills.

Gear Up With Sting Sports!

Check out Sting Sports if you're ready to start your martial arts career with confidence that comes from wearing the best gear. To meet the needs of both amateur and professional boxers, they have a huge variety of boxing gloves and boxing shorts. Our products are made to last and guarantee performance so you may train with assurance and reach your full potential.

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