Opting for a combat sport that fits your fitness level, is versatile, and makes you feel empowered can be challenging. You can see various kickboxing vs. Muay Thai comparisons. These two sports demand high-intensity training and versatile combat techniques.Â
However, there are key differences between both types of sport. Both demand intense training and exceptional defense techniques. Before opting for such an intense sport, you must be well-versed in its training, equipment, and techniques.
 We are here to help you determine which sport suits you best. You can now opt for a combat sport that suits your fitness level and fulfills your desire to combat.
Without further ado, let’s dive in!
Kickboxing vs. Muay Thai: Which sport is a better choice for you?
Kickboxing and Muay Thai are two different sports. You need to treat them differently to understand the differences. There is a rich history of both sports. You can now choose between the two by knowing its aspects.
Here’s what you need to know.
Origins of sport
Muay Thai boxing
Muay Thai boxing originated in Thailand, has a cultural significance, and reflects the tradition of Thai people. Muay Thai originated from close-quarters combat used by the Thai military to protect their kingdom and defend against invasion.
Kickboxing
Kickboxing is a technique that evolves back to the desire to blend traditional martial arts techniques. The combination of striking arts originated from various cultures and played a role in shaping kickboxing.
Techniques and strikes
Both Muay Thai and kickboxing consist of a great range of strikes and techniques. You can find various strikes or techniques similar to it. However, there are distinct differences between the two that make them unique.
Shared techniques
Muay Thai and kickboxing consist of shared techniques like punches, knees, kicks, and clinching. Listed below are shared techniques of Muay Thai and kickboxing.
- Punches
- Jab: A prompt straight punch to target the opponent’s head or upper body.
- Cross: A strong punch you can deliver with your rear hand.
- Hook: Use a curve punch to target the opponent’s head from the side.
- Uppercut: an upward punch used to target the chin of opponents.
- Kicks
- Front kick: straight kick delivered with the ball of the foot. It is usually aimed to hit the opponent’s torso.
- Roundhouse kick: a rotational kick used to target the opponent’s body or head with a shin or instep.
- Side kick: a linear kick delivered with the heel or edge of the foot. It is often used to push opponents away.
- Axe kick: a descending kick used with the heel is meant to target the opponent’s head.
- Knees
In both combat sports, knee strikes target the opponents’ body and head in close proximity.
Distinctive technique of Muay Thai
- Elbow strikes
- Horizontal elbow: a horizontal elbow strike aimed to hit an opponent’s head or neck.
- Upwards elbow: a rising elbow strike to target the opponent’s chin or torso.
- Spinning elbow: a spinning motion used to deliver an unexpected elbow strike.
- Clinching and knee strikes
- Clinch techniques
In Muay Thai, you’re most likely to emphasize clinching. This technique allows fighters to control opponents, land knee strikes, and execute throws.
- Knee strikesÂ
In Muay Thai, you can utilize various knee strikes like straight knees, straight knees, diagonal knees, and flying knees.
- teep(push kick)
Keep Push is the trademark of Muay Thai. You can use your front leg and push the opponent to disrupt their balance.Clinching and grappling
Clinching and grappling allow fighters to take control of their opponents. You can create opportunities to attain a dominant position in the ring.Â
Here’s how clinching and kickboxing works in kickboxing and Muay Thai.
- Clinching in Muay Thai
Clinch techniques
Clinch is the fundamental aspect of Muay Thai. It emphasizes close-range control and striking.
Arm control
In Muay Thai, you can use your arms to secure the opponent’s head or neck. It will help you restrict their movement and enable knee strikes.
Knee strikes
Use a clinch for a powerful knee strike to the opponent’s body or head.Â
Grappling in Muay Thai
- Neck clinch
The ‘plum’ or ‘double collar tie’ is a specific clinch where the fighter controls the opponent’s head with both hands.
- Elbow strike
Muay Thai enables you to exercise short-range elbow strikes during clinch. It helps you target the opponent’s head or body.
Clinching in kickboxing
- Limited clinch
Traditional kickboxing limits the use of clinches. You can focus more on striking techniques from a distance.
- Control and breaks
In kickboxing, you can use a clinch to control opponents before breaking away to return to striking.
Attire and equipment
Choose appropriate attire and equipment to exercise kickboxing and Muay Thai appropriately. You can opt for Muay Thai and kickboxing shorts and gloves for powerful combat. It is good to opt for combat-specific attire and gears for desirable results.
Listed below are must-have attire and gear for kickboxing and Muay Thai.
- Shorts
- A T-shirt or tank top
- Hand wraps
- Shin guards
- Mouthguards
- Boxing gloves
- Headgear
- Ankle support
The above-listed gears and apparel can help you combat better and provide protection against strikes and punches.
Training and conditioning
Footwork and movement
Footwork is the most essential skill for both types of combat. You should learn to create angles, evade opponents, and strike effectively.Â
Defense and counterattack
In such intense combat like Muay Thai and kickboxing, you should master the art of defending. You should master defense techniques like blocking, parrying, and evading strikes. Also, you must create a strategy to counterattack opponents. You can capitalize on opening opportunities created by opponents.
Conditioning
For conditioning, you can indulge in intense cardio training to sustain intense matches. Perform activities like skipping rope, cycling, and high-intensity interval training. Weightlifting and body weight exercise also help develop explosive strength.
For more insight, read the FAQs.
FAQ’s
Which sport is better for competition?
It’s all about personal preference when it comes to competition. Both sports have unique appeal, techniques, and rules to combat.
Is kickboxing or Muay Thai physically more demanding?
Both sports require the same amount of energy and training. However, Muay Thai clinching and additional techniques make it slightly more demanding.
Which sport is better for self-defense?
Both sports require effective striking training for self-defense. However, Muay Thai clinching can provide more versatility in certain situations.
ConclusionÂ
Kickboxing vs. Muay Thai, these two popular combats, are popular choices for the masses for their reasons. You can opt for either of them to showcase your strike potential. However, seeing which sport is ideal for your fitness levels is essential.Â
No matter which sport you opt for, the need for accurate gears persists. To find high-quality and affordable boxing gear, you can visit Infinitude Fight. They offer exceptional craftsmanship and provide a range of choices in gear.
Pick a combat you choose and prepare to strike hard with protective yet potent boxing equipment.
Read article more rspedia
