Boxing Or Kickboxing – Which Is the Best Workout for Beginners?
Are you bored by jogging and the gym scene? Do you want to try a Boxing or Kickboxing workout at home or with a friend? But which one is better to start with – Boxing or Kickboxing? This article will compare and contrast Boxing with Kickboxing workouts for home fitness.
Boxing vs Kickboxing – which should I start with?
If you are just starting out, and want a workout for fitness, Boxing is the best choice. Later on, if you want to, move to Kickboxing – but start with Boxing. Why? In a nutshell, Boxing for fitness is easier to learn than Kickboxing, so you will get results quicker.
Why is Boxing easier to learn than Kickboxing?
Boxing is easier to learn because you stay on two feet. With Kickboxing you have to lift one leg into the air. This is not a problem if you’re flexible, have good balance, plenty of space and good instructions on how to throw a kick – which is a more difficult, athletic move.
Which will get me fitter – Boxing or Kickboxing?
At a high level a Kickboxing workout burns more calories and works your legs more – so it may be a harder workout. However, the problem is getting to that high level. Many beginners, especially unfit ones, are going to struggle with learning the main kick – the roundhouse.
Which is more practical in a limited space at home?
The clear winner is Boxing. It takes up less space. With Kickboxing you need a wide berth. Also, because Kickboxing is harder to learn, safety becomes an issue in a small space. Sharp cornered coffee tables do not go well with a Kickboxing workout. With a partner Boxing workout you can work out in a much smaller space.
What about Equipment for Boxing and Kickboxing workouts?
There are many different types of equipment – some you can use with kicks and punches, some just with punches.
Punch mitts – are the most common for Boxing workouts. Punch mitts are two football sized targets your partner slips on to their hands – you’ve probably seen trainers using them with their boxers. Also called focus pads or focus mitts, these are good for punching, but are not so good for kicks.
Punching bag – which you hang up in your garage. These can work for both punches and kicks but are harder to use for kicks. They swing around more – and in my experience, are a difficult choice for complete beginners.
Kick shields – are large, soft shields usually about the size of a torso. Good for kicking or punching, but you need to train with someone who knows how to hold them.
Thai kick pads – A larger version of punch mitts. Each pad is about the length of your forearm. Good for kicking, punching, elbows and knees – but again you need a partner who knows how to hold them.
Conclusion: Start with Boxing, then move to Kickboxing
Boxing is simpler to learn, takes less space and is easier for your partner to do the mitt work. You will get fitness results quicker as you can learn the moves in less time. Boxing is still technical, but is more forgiving if partners are less experienced. Kicks, when you first learn them, can get wild and dangerous for both kicker and the pad holder. If you’ve got the time, technique and fitness to master kicks go right ahead. But if not, stick with Boxing.
