Kickboxing Combinations

Kickboxing is a highly skilled and intensive sport and comes under the broader classification of martial arts. The martial arts cover all forms of traditional fighting means and combat methods, though there is a school of thought that argues against the inclusion of kickboxing under this heading. Kickboxing is one of the American styles of martial arts and is practiced not only by sports persons, but also those seeking instruction in self defense techniques. There are a number of kickboxing combinations, however most instructors advise that you develop your own style, since what suits one, may not necessarily wok for another. Having said that, there are some basic kickboxing combinations that you can use as a basis to build on:

Basic Kickboxing Combinations

The fundamental theory behind any kickboxing combination, is that multiple moves (kicks and punches) on your opponent in quick succession, as part of a sequence, are more effective than a single punch or kick. The point is also to condition yourself in a manner that allows you maximum opportunity to gain an advantage over your opponent. The three basic moves in boxing are the jab, the cross and the hook. Some also argue for the addition of a fourth basic punch, the upper cut. All kickboxing combinations use these base punches in combination with kicks as part of a seamless sequence. Take a look at some basic kickboxing combinations:

   1. Jab/Cross/Knee/Jab
   2. Jab/Cross/Hook/Jab
   3. Lead leg front kick/Jab/Cross/Jab
   4. Left leg kick/left jab/Turnover right leg kick/Cross/Right jab

Kickboxing routines can also be used as effective and intensive cardiovascular exercises. A well choreographed cardio kickboxing combination, works as an effective full body workout and can help in muscle building on your upper and lower body. Since you use your entire body for a sequence of kicks and punches that are repeated in a pattern or routine, this effectively targets muscle groups in your arms and legs, adding definition and toning your body. Instructors advise that to be an effective fighter, you must perform the sequence instinctively, and move from sequence to sequence without conscious thought.

Cardio Kickboxing Combinations

These are kickboxing moves that focus on the upper body in a sequence of fast punches and jabs. As a general rule, punch before you kick. Cardio kickboxing combinations for the arms involve thrusting your arm out towards your opponent's face and bringing it back quickly, followed by a repetition with the opposite arm. For maximum impact, you can also jab with the same arm in quick counts, using 1-1 (jab-jab) repetitions, followed by 1-1-1, and so on. When using alternate hands, use the jab-punch combination, to the count of 1-2 (jab-punch with alternate hand), 1-2-1 and so on. Continue repetitions till you reach four counts, with the addition of a knee kick. You should reach a combination that feels natural, and perform these kickboxing drills till the sequence flows like a reflex.

Although you will eventually find a kickboxing combination in a sequence of jabs, punches, kicks and hooks that you can modify to suit your own individual fighting style, to start with, there are some initial kickboxing techniques to master. As with any sport, start slow, and then add moves to your routine. The following is a list of kickboxing combinations to get you started:

   1. Jab-Jab/Jab-Jab
   2. Jab-Jab/Cross/Jab-Jab
   3. Jab-Jab/Hook/Jab-Jab
   4. Jab/Cross/Jab-Jab

   1. Jab-Jab/Cross-Cross
   2. Jab-Jab/Cross/Hook
   3. Jab/Cross/Hook/Jab
   4. Jab/Cross/Hook/Cross

   1. Jab/Cross/Knee/Jab
   2. Jab/Cross/Knee/Jab
   3. Jab/Knee/Hook/Jab
   4. Jab/Knee/Hook/Jab

Once you find a rhythm and identify a sequence that works for you, you can modify the sequence in a number of ways to make up an entire routine of kickboxing combinations. Always remember to keep up your defenses and attempt to anticipate your opponents moves. Ultimately, mix-it-up, make it work for you and stay on top of the game!