One can say that boxing and kickboxing are alike. Both activities could be siblings from the same parent. However, even with obvious similarities, there are certain differences each activity has over the other, especially in self defense. This review is based on the effectiveness of both fighting styles in self-defense. Hence, in light of this, there are a few areas we’ll be considering.
1. It takes longer to become good at kickboxing
Being a physical skill that most people have to learn and practice consistently before they can engage, both activities have a learning curve. Both boxing and kickboxing require perseverance, commitment, effort, and consistency before one can reap the sweet results of knocking your assailant out. However, in terms of the learning curve (time rate of one’s progress in acquiring a skill or experience), both fighting styles are quite different.
The learning curve for boxing is quite steep as one has to learn a lot in a short period of time in the beginning. Kickboxing has a more shallow learning curve, and it takes longer to become good at it. It typically takes between 4 to 8 months of training to become proficient in boxing. But it requires between 10 to 18 months before being able to use kickboxing for self-defense with good skill and confidence.
This is because kickboxing involves a lot more strategies and techniques which are not embedded in regular boxing, thus its learning curve has a longer progression than boxing. This difference in learning duration is why most individuals believe kickboxing is more difficult to learn than boxing.
Takeaway: When choosing to learn either fighting style, consider the amount of time you’re willing to dedicate to perfect your knowledge and application of the skill. Kickboxing requires more time for one to excel in its use for self-defense while boxing doesn’t.
2. Boxing requires greater physical strength
Both activities will help tone your body and muscles accordingly, hence it doesn’t matter what size or physical abilities a person has in the strength department. As one progresses in training, he/she will gain more strength and resilience while torching some calories as well.
In boxing, strength training is more important in order to deliver powerful punches and to build resilience to receiving them. In comparison, kickboxing requires more flexibility and awareness of the available space in order to execute kicks from a further distance.
Takeaway: While neither size nor strength is a criterion to enroll in either self-defense class, strength training is important, especially in boxing.
3. Boxing is more efficient in close quarters, kickboxing out in the open
Your assailant might use unconventional methods like kicking your groin, biting, hair pulling, etc., when attacking you. To defend and counter, you need to know which fighting style is best in particular scenarios.
Boxing is more efficient in close quarters. When in close contact with your assailant, all you need is one knockout punch to knock out the attacker while you flee to safety. But at the same time, it’s not advised to get too close to a potential attacker as they could be carrying a weapon. With kickboxing, you get a whole range of activities and versatility as you can use your feet, hands, knees, elbows, and other body parts to disarm your opponent. Kickboxing isn’t so efficient in close quarters, but in the open it allows you to keep a distance from the assailant as it takes space to extend your legs in order to throw powerful kicks.
Takeaway: Boxing is more efficient when in close contact with an attacker, while kickboxing is better in the open as it allows you to keep a safe distance.
4. Kickboxing is more efficient against multiple attackers
In boxing, close contact is required to deliver the most powerful punches. Being far away will cause you to lean in, thus making yourself susceptible to counterattacks or in the case of multiple attackers, a total beat down. This fighting style is only limited to the use of hands and the upper body, hence the individual is already limited the number of useful tools.
Boxers are known to deliver powerful punches fast, and hence, it’s quite easier to subdue a single attacker with boxing. When the attackers are in numbers, subduing them with boxing can be more difficult as you are indeed only using two hands as your weapons.
Kickboxing on the other hand offers the individual a greater variety attacks as it involves both the upper and lower body. Defeating multiple attackers is more plausible with kickboxing as you can deliver a powerful punch and a crippling kick simultaneously while maintaining a safe distance to prevent grabbing.
Because of its versatility and range, kickboxing is more efficient against one or multiple attackers. However, skill and experience are important factors required to successfully ward off multiple attackers.
5. Kickboxing is better against armed attackers
Outside the ring, the rules do not apply and your assailant could have a weapon. In such an event which self-defense style should be used? Well, both kickboxing and boxing could work if the attacker possesses a weapon.
In essence, both kickboxing and boxing can be used when there is an introduction of a weapon by an attacker. However, boxing is the riskier choice as kickboxing initiates a safe distance between you and the attacker.
As long as the weapon isn’t concealed, boxing can enable you to deliver quick and heavy punches on your assailant faster than he/she can stab or shoot you. Hence, you can knock them out. But the trick here is you have to be quick because you will need to get close to them to deliver those punches. A second slower and you’re close enough to get stabbed, hit, or shot.
Kickboxing on the other hand can permit you to disarm your attacker with a swift kick to his/her hand. This will get the weapon out of their grip and on the floor. Next, you can move in for a quick punch to finish them off.
6. Kickboxing is superior if you fall on the ground
So your attacker has you on the ground, which fighting style would get you out of there? The obvious answer is kickboxing. Kickboxing offers a lot of techniques, some of which are applicable from a low point, for example, low kicks.
Also, when on the ground and depending on the angle of the assailant, the only thing you can use is your legs. Hence, all you need to do is to get close enough to your assailant to give them a low kick to their shin, ankles, or knees. This will send them tumbling down as well while you gather yourself up. Since boxing is all about using the hands, getting out of this scenario might prove difficult especially if one has no other martial arts skill.
7. Kickboxing is better when no rules apply
Outside the ring anything can happen as the rules do not apply. Boxing has more rules and restrictions to begin with, since it’s not allowed to “hit below the belt” and you’re training only your swings and punches. A kick to the groin or the knee is often a better way to stop an attacker in situations where rules don’t apply.
Boxing, although very precise and easier to learn, is a riskier option outside the ring and with multiple assailants. Since kickboxing also incorporates the techniques of boxing and kicking, it is a more efficient choice overall.
Self-defense takes away one’s lack of control or vulnerability in harmful situations and equips them with the tools, skills, and materials to be responsible for their safety. Two ways to go with self-defense are kickboxing and boxing. Both fighting styles have their benefits and drawbacks, while one can be better suited for certain scenarios than the other.
This piece has highlighted these scenarios as points in the comparison of both fighting styles and on a final note, it’s important to know that both kickboxing and boxing are highly effective for self-defense. It all boils down to skill and experience.
FAQs
The main difference between kickboxing and boxing is that kickboxing allows the use of kicks, while boxing only allows the use of punches. Kickboxers utilize a combination of punches, kicks, knee strikes, and other techniques to outscore or knock out their opponent, while boxers rely solely on punches.
Can a boxer win against a kickboxer? ›
If a boxer connects first and with more punches, they can quickly KO a kickboxer. The longer the fight goes, and the more times a kickboxer lands kicks on the boxer, especially leg kicks, the more likely the kickboxer will win.
Can kickboxing be used for self-defense? ›
Full-contact kickboxing is excellent for self-defense and will teach you many physical and mental skills required to handle a real-life altercation.
Will kickboxing help in a street fight? ›
Boxing, Muay Thai, or Kickboxing
All are equally effective in a street fight. Since each of them incorporates different techniques, understanding the differences is important. Afterward, you'll be able to decide which art is right for you.
Is it better to learn boxing or kickboxing? ›
Is kickboxing really more effective than regular boxing? Boxing is one of the most effective combat systems as you can end a fight with just one punch from standing firm with your feet on the ground. Kickboxing makes use of punches more to create openings for low kicks and head kicks.
Is boxing the hardest sport to train for? ›
For: Boxing is commonly held as the most difficult sport out there. It requires all aspects of physical ability, coordination, stamina, strength, endurance, agility, and timing. Boxers also need to be in the most supreme physical condition, even at the amateur level. The mastery of the sport is also very difficult.
Was Mike Tyson a kickboxer or boxer? ›
Michael Gerard Tyson (born June 30, 1966) is an American former professional boxer who competed from 1985 to 2005. Nicknamed "Iron Mike" and "Kid Dynamite" in his early career, and later known as "The Baddest Man on the Planet", Tyson is considered to be one of the greatest heavyweight boxers of all time.
Can a kickboxer beat a Karate? ›
Kickboxing For Self-Defense. Kickboxing is better than Karate when it comes to self-defense, and it is tough to argue against that. Yes, this may sound odd as Karate is a self-defense system while Kickboxing is a combat sport. But the only thing that matters on the streets is how practical techniques are.
Can boxers fight in a street fight? ›
Another advantage of boxing in a street fight that is not possible with other martial arts is that a boxer can take on multiple attackers at a time. It is more punching each attacker and within 20 seconds, the fight is done.
Where can you not hit in kickboxing? ›
Rules: Fighters are allowed to strike their opponent with punches and kicks including kicks below the waist, except for the groin. Elbows and knees are forbidden (with the exception of some competitions). Clinch fighting, throws and sweeps are allowed.
You can not lock an opponent's neck (Like a Headlock) and executing a hip throw. You can not grab an opponent in the clinch and then sweep their legs out.
Does kickboxing teach you discipline? ›
Martial arts like boxing and kickboxing will keep your child healthy and physically active while teaching them confidence, focus, discipline, and more.
What sport is most effective in street fight? ›
Muay Thai is the number one, undisputed striking art, making it very effective for self-defense and street fights—the artwork on clinches, kicks, and other unique factors.
Does kickboxing help with anger? ›
If you guessed that kickboxing is a good outlet for those struggling with anger management and other forms of emotion control, you're correct. When practiced as a non-competitive sport, kickboxing is a nonviolent outlet for anger, a healthy release of tension caused by the stress of daily life.
How do I choose between boxing and kickboxing? ›
Kickboxing should be your primary choice if you want to be more diverse and have more skills to rely on for self-defense and MMA. Boxing is a combat sport with very rich traditions and an inseparable part of mainstream sports for a reason, so you will definitely not be wrong in choosing the pugilistic path.
Why is kickboxing so effective? ›
Kickboxing strengthens and tones your legs, arms, glutes, back, and core all at once. You're moving through the entire workout, causing you to burn more calories while strengthening your muscles. This equates to fat loss, not muscle loss!
Can you punch in kickboxing? ›
Kickboxing techniques as allowed in international kickboxing competitions include punching, kicking, knees and limited clinching. Some of the more kickboxing techniques for beginners include standard jab-cross punches, roundhouse kicks and straight knees.
What is the number 1 hardest sport? ›
According to Sports Virsa, the top 10 hardest sports in the world to play in 2022 are as follows: Boxing (hardest), American football, mixed martial arts, ice hockey, gymnastics, basketball, soccer, wrestling, rugby, and water polo.
What is the hardest sport to play mentally? ›
It may be surprising to most people that swimming is number 1 in the list of the most mentally challenging sports in the world. Many professional swimmers fall into a 7-day self-sabotage cycle. This is a period where they may doubt themselves and grow continuous stress on themselves.
What is the toughest sport in the world? ›
Here are the toughest sports in the world ranked:
- Swimming. Weighted Average Score: 23.2. ...
- Figure Skating. Weighted Average Score: 13.6. ...
- Bull Riding. Weighted Average Score: 12.2. ...
- Cross-Country Running. Weighted Average Score: 10.5. ...
- Rugby. Weighted Average Score: 9.4. ...
- Soccer. Weighted Average Score: 9.2. ...
- Water Polo. ...
- Basketball.
After losing three of his last four fights, Tyson said he would quit boxing because he felt he had lost his passion for the sport. In 2000 Tyson fired everyone working for him and enlisted new accountants, who prepared a statement showing he started the year $3.3 million in debt but earned $65.7 million.
Who was the best boxer in history? ›
“Muhammad Ali tops this list of the top 10 boxers. After a successful amateur career with multiple trophies, national titles and an Olympic Gold Medal, Ali transitioned smoothly to the professional setting in 1960. After a 19-fight unbeaten streak, he earned his title shot and beat Sonny Liston in February 1964.
Was Mike Tyson the most feared boxer? ›
Mike Tyson was once one of the most feared men in the world, not just in the boxing ring, but by literally anyone who knew of him. He looked aggressive, he was aggressive, and anyone brave enough to stand in front of him would know precisely what it was like to get punched by iron Mike.
Can kickboxing beat kung fu? ›
If you prefer form and style overpower and force, choose Kung Fu. On the other side of the specter, if your goal is to learn how to defend yourself effectively, Kickboxing is the way to go. Your training will be much more focused on the combat itself and getting into pristine physical condition.
Can kickboxing beat taekwondo? ›
One hard low kick will incapacitate most people who have no experience in real martial arts, and you'll learn to throw kicks and punches efficiently both in Kickboxing and Taekwondo. But, if we compare which one between the two is better for self-defense, Kickboxing has a slight edge.
Can a kickboxer beat a bodybuilder? ›
generally speaking, a boxer will completely annihilate a bodybuilder in a 1v1 unarmed fight.
Can a boxer go to jail for fighting? ›
The short answer is yes, you can go to jail for fighting. However, you have the right to physically defend yourself as long as it is not excessive. Even if you strike first in a fight, you may not be committing a crime.
Can a boxer turn down a fight? ›
A sanctioning body will often rule that the champion must take on a specific opponent. This fighter is known as a mandatory challenger. If the champion turns down the fight, they are forced to vacate the title.
Can a regular person beat a boxer? ›
Probably - as long as they use their attributes. A boxers main attributes are striking within the mid-range predominantly, whilst standing. If a boxer is upright, with a good stance, and is good with their feet then they are very dangerous - but if you take this away the strong guy would have a better chance.
Do you have to be shirtless in kickboxing? ›
Although professional male athletes are often shirtless and wear shorts in the ring, there are no hard rules on what you must wear to your class. If you are attending a class for the first-time dress comfortably.
(A fighter may grab the opponent's kicking leg and immediately execute one legal strike while taking one step, and then they must immediately release the leg.)
Can you sweep the leg in kickboxing? ›
Foot sweeps are legal, but you cannot strike above the ankle. Not-Allowed – you cannot clinch, throw knees, or throw elbows and sweeps are not allowed. There is no striking to the back or top of the head. You cannot strike the knee.
Why do people hug in kickboxing? ›
So, while it might look like a hug from the outside, the clinch is actually a tactical maneuver, one that is typically used for three reasons: To break up an opponent's offensive rhythm. To give you time to clear your head after you've been stunned. To rest when you're desperately waiting for the bell to ring.
Is it illegal to aim for neck in boxing? ›
You cannot punch your opponent's back, or the back of his head or neck (known as a rabbit punch) or in the kidneys (kidney punch).
What does kickboxing do to your mind? ›
Kickboxing is well-known for its benefits to mental health, especially as a stress reliever and safe way to relieve tension. Centering your physical activity around the habitual practice of kickboxing has many carryovers into your personal wellbeing including confidence building, and improved brain health.
Do you have to be strong to do kickboxing? ›
Kickboxers need power, speed, and strength during fights. Having a combination of these helps to improve technique and performance. That is why weight training and body weight exercises can prove to be very useful in the long term.
What skills do you gain from kickboxing? ›
To get better balance, power and agility, kickboxing is king among workouts. Experts who have studied the sport say nearly everyone—even older people who might shy away from such things—can benefit from throwing a punch. Unlike most other types of exercise, kickboxing emphasizes powerful movements.
What is the best street fight tactic? ›
The 5 Best Self-Defense Moves
- Elbows and Knees. In a street altercation, you want to avoid punching with your fists. ...
- Front Kicks, Side Kicks, and Round Kicks. Kicks are effective strikes because you can keep your opponent at bay. ...
- Rear Naked Chokehold. ...
- Palm Strikes and Tiger Claws. ...
- Running.
Aim for soft spots on your opponent's body.
The eyes, groin, solar plexus, and throat are all ideal spots to punch your attacker. These spots are soft, so they won't hurt your hand, but they're super painful when hit, and may disable whoever you're fighting.
What are the best places to hit in a fight? ›
The best places to hit someone are the most sensitive parts of the body, including the eyes, ears, nose, and groin. But there are also many other spots where thick bones don't protect the body's super sensitive nerves and organs.
Kickboxing regularly will reduce your anxiety, elevate your mood, and help you cope with everyday stressors. This stress-busting power of kickboxing is one of the many reasons why it is excellent for the entire family.
What is the best sport to release anger? ›
Physical Activities You Can Do Right Now To Release Anger
- Team sports. Join a softball, basketball, football, baseball, or volleyball league; this can help you release endorphins while playing a game with those you enjoy spending time with. ...
- Pilates. ...
- Martial arts. ...
- Kickboxing. ...
- Long-distance activities.
Yes, practicing kickboxing makes you stronger and leaner, but it also does something else. It makes you more self-confident. The improvements you see in your body, strikes and ability to focus, combine within you to build your self-confidence.
Does kickboxing make you skinny or bulky? ›
Kickboxing training helps to build muscle mass, boosts your metabolism and pushes your body to lose weight even faster. Moreover, it is a great cardio workout, which means it can help to tone your body faster than other forms of exercise. Kickboxing is particularly helpful in toning the belly and love handles.
Does kickboxing make you bigger? ›
Kickboxing does not make you thicker. To be thick, you need to have a lot of muscle mass and some body fat. Kickboxing is an intense conditioning exercise that doesn't spur muscle growth and because of the energy expenditure, will make it harder to put on body fat if training hard and often.
Will kickboxing build muscle? ›
Kickboxing has several benefits. It helps build muscle mass, boosts your metabolism, and pushes your body to lose weight faster. It is a full-body workout that uses every muscle and strengthens your core. This cardio workout also improves your flexibility, balance, and coordination, and can help build faster reflexes.
What kind of body does kickboxing give you? ›
Kickboxing strengthens and tones your legs, arms, glutes, back, and core all at once. You're moving through the entire workout, causing you to burn more calories while strengthening your muscles. This equates to fat loss, not muscle loss!
How long does it take to get in shape with kickboxing? ›
How soon will you see results? “If you're going to class at least three days per week and are eating a relatively clean diet, then you can expect to start seeing results within three weeks since these workouts are highly effective at burning fat and toning,” says Lopez.
Does kickboxing reduce breast size? ›
Kickboxing can help reduce breast size because it is a full-body workout that engages the key muscles in the body, leaving the kickboxer with a leaner and toned body. The adipose tissue (fat) in the breasts will be reduced over time if practicing regularly.
How many times should I kickbox a week? ›
In order to burn fat and become in shape, kickboxing training should be done three times a week. If you want to compete at a high level in kickboxing, you must practice at least five times a week. Kickboxing is a popular way of exercise for those who don't want to engage in full-contact hitting.
Kickboxing – Shins. You won't ever see a kickboxer throw a kick below the waist and get away with it in a regulated fight – strikes below the belt are not permitted.
Should I lift weights for kickboxing? ›
Kickboxers should lift weights to enhance their kickboxing performance in the ring. Gone are the days where lifting weights was seen as making you slow. When a strength training program is designed with the idea of improving reactive ability and high-velocity strength, you will get faster.
Does kickboxing make you lean? ›
Kickboxing provides an aerobic workout that burns calories and can help you lose weight. Research shows that elite and amateur kickboxers have more muscle mass and lower percentages of body fat. A person who weighs 155 pounds can burn 372 calories during just 30 minutes of kickboxing.
