How many kicks are in kickboxing?

Kickboxing, as the name suggests, encompasses a diverse range of striking techniques, including punches, elbows, knees, and, of course, kicks. Kicking is a fundamental aspect of kickboxing, offering practitioners a versatile arsenal of attacks to effectively engage opponents and score points in competition. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of kicks in kickboxing, exploring the different types and variations that practitioners employ in training and combat.

The Versatility of Kicking Techniques

1. Front Kick (Teep): The front kick, also known as a teep or push kick, is a straight-legged thrusting kick delivered with the ball of the foot or the heel. It’s commonly used to maintain distance, disrupt an opponent’s balance, or create openings for follow-up strikes.
2. Roundhouse Kick (Mawashi Geri): The roundhouse kick is a powerful and dynamic technique that involves pivoting on the supporting foot and swinging the kicking leg in a circular motion to strike the opponent with the shin or instep. It can target the body, legs, or head and is a staple of kickboxing combinations.
3. Side Kick (Yoko Geri): The side kick is executed by thrusting the heel or the edge of the foot directly into the opponent’s midsection or ribs. It’s known for its speed, precision, and penetration power, making it effective for both offensive and defensive purposes.
4. Hook Kick (Ushiro Mawashi Geri): The hook kick is a deceptive and versatile technique that involves a circular swinging motion of the leg, followed by a striking motion with the heel or instep. It’s often used to target the head, neck, or torso from unexpected angles.
5. Back Kick (Ushiro Geri): The back kick is a powerful counterattack executed by turning the back towards the opponent and driving the heel into the target with explosive force. It’s effective for catching opponents off guard and delivering knockout blows.

Combinations and Variations

1. Double Kicks: Double kicks involve chaining together two kicks in rapid succession, such as a front kick followed by a roundhouse kick or a roundhouse kick followed by a hook kick. These combinations add complexity and unpredictability to an attacker’s offense.
2. Switch Kicks: Switch kicks require the practitioner to switch the stance or pivot position before executing the kick, allowing for quick changes in direction and angle of attack. Switch kicks can catch opponents by surprise and create openings for follow-up strikes.
3. Flying Kicks: Flying kicks, while less common in traditional kickboxing, are dynamic and acrobatic techniques that involve leaping off the ground to deliver powerful kicks. Examples include flying roundhouse kicks, flying side kicks, and flying hook kicks.

In conclusion, the art of kicking in kickboxing is rich and multifaceted, offering practitioners a wide array of techniques to unleash during training and competition. By mastering the various types of kicks, refining their timing and accuracy, and incorporating them into strategic combinations and tactics, kickboxers can effectively control distance, dictate the pace of the fight, and outmaneuver opponents with precision and finesse. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned practitioner, understanding and mastering the diverse range of kicking techniques in kickboxing is essential for elevating your skills and achieving success in the ring.