What Are the Benefits of Kickboxing

Kickboxing is a form of martial art that involves punching, kicking, and footwork. The sport incorporates moves from other types of martial arts, such as karate, as well as boxing.

There are different types of kickboxing, each with different rules. For instance, American kickboxing uses the hands and feet to make contact, while muay thai allows the elbows and knees as contact points.

Noncontact kickboxing and cardio kickboxing incorporate the same footwork, kicking, and punching techniques as other types of kickboxing, but you direct punches and kicks at weight bags and hand pads instead of at a workout partner.

Kickboxing offers up a number of health benefits for people of all ages. We’ll take a look at these benefits next, along with tips on getting started.

Health of Cardiovascular system

What Are the Benefits of Kickboxing

A 2014 study trusted source showed that participating in kickboxing three days a week for one hour at a time increased maximum oxygen uptake (VO₂max).

VO₂max is the measurement of the maximum amount of oxygen you can use during physical activity. It’s an indicator of your cardiovascular endurance. The higher it is, the more efficiently your body is getting and using oxygen.

Balance and strength of Muscles

In the same 2014 study, participants saw improved muscle strength in both the upper and lower body.

A small study that looked at the effects of kickboxing in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) showed that kickboxing three days per week resulted in improved coordination and balance.

Though only 11 participants completed testing and training, the results of this study suggest that kickboxing may help improve reactive and anticipatory balance. This, in turn, could reduce your risk of falls as you age.

Weight loss

It’s no secret that regular exercise can help you manage your weight.

Kickboxing provides an aerobic workout that burns calories and can help you lose weight. Research Trusted Source 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.

Self-esteem and self- confidence

Exercise and martial arts have been linked to improved confidence and slef-esteem. Self-confidence plays an important role in kickboxing, and many studios emphasize confidence-building as part of training.

A 2010 review Trusted Source suggests that practicing martial arts improves self-confidence in youths. Exercise in general has also been linked to improved self-esteem.

Sleep well

Physical activity improves sleep, including in people with sleep disorders. There is a significant amount of evidence Trusted Source that getting regular exercise has a positive effect on sleep quality and duration.

What Are the Benefits of Kickboxing

Sleep deprivation increases your risk of diseases, such as cancer and heart disease. Getting enough sleep improves your mood and ability to think, and it increases your energy levels.

Mental health improvements

Martial arts, including kickboxing, and other forms of exercise have been linked to improved mental health and positive feelings.

Kickboxing involves aerobic and anaerobic exercise, both of which positively impact mood. It does this by increasing endorphins and producing changes in the part of the brain that can improve stress, anxiety, and depression.

safety

Kickboxing is usually safe for most people. But as with any sport that involves whole-body movements, kickboxing can cause injuries.

A 2003 study Trusted Source that looked at the incidence of injuries in people who participate in kickboxing for fitness found the most common injuries to be strains of the shoulders, back, hips, knees, and ankles.

If you already have injuries affecting these areas, speak to your doctor before taking up kickboxing.

It’s also a good idea to speak to your doctor before starting any new exercise, especially if you have an underlying heart or lung condition.

Some tips for new comers

If you’re new to kickboxing, you may find the following tips helpful:

• Ease into kickboxing slowly to reduce your risk of injury.
• Consider your goals (for example, fitness, weight loss, or competition) when choosing a kickboxing class.
• Aim to participate in kickboxing at least three days per week for one hour at a time.
• Make sure to fuel up properly beforehand and stay hydrated while working out.

Final word

Kickboxing can increase your stamina, strength, and overall fitness.

Before you give kickboxing a try, talk to your doctor to see if they have any concerns.

If you get the go-ahead, start by taking it slow. Work toward one-hour sessions three times a week to reap the many health benefits that this exercise offers.