BOXING VS KICKBOXING VS MMA | Which 1 is Best

ByHENRY LEVI

Combat sports have gained great popularity (BOXING VS KICKBOXING) across all over the world. Boxing, MMA (Mixed Martial Arts), and Kickboxing are three of the most well-known combat sports in the world. Each sport has its unique history, techniques, and training. In this article, we will discuss the complete differences between BOXING vs. kickboxing and MMA. And their training, fight format, pros and cons, and overall scope.

Boxing vs Kickboxing vs MMA

Boxing

1. Training

Boxing is mostly called “the sweet science” due to its focus on precision, timing, and footwork. In training for boxing techniques of punches, defensive exercises, and control in the ring are involved.

BOXING VS KICKBOXING
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Cardio Work: An important part of boxing training is cardiovascular conditioning through activities such as running, jump rope, and high-intensity interval training.

Punching Techniques: Boxers mainly focus on four punches such as jab, cross, hook, and uppercut. Training for boxing are on heavy bags, speed bags, and mitts is common.

Footwork: Movement in the ring is very crucial. Footwork drills help boxers to maintain balance while attacking or defending on opponents.

Defense: Boxers learn head movement, blocking, parrying, and slipping punches to avoid to being hit.

3. Fight Format

  1. An amateur Boxing match consist of 3-4 rounds while professional matches can go up to 12 rounds. And each round consists of 3 minutes with 1 minute of rest between each round.
  2. Boxing matches are judged based on punches landed, defense, and ring control. 

4. Pros and Cons

Pros

  • This sport is excellent for cardio and endurance.
  • Easily accessible to beginners due to its simplicity.
  • Its mainly focus on hand-eye coordination and precision.

Cons

  • The boxing is only limited to upper body strikes
  • Lack of  varieties in combat as compared to other sports.
  • In boxing there is a high risk of long-term head injuries due to repeated punches on the head.

5. Scope

Boxing is one of the oldest and most established combat sports. Its scope in the professional world is very vast. It gives you opportunities in amateur, Olympic, and professional circuits. It will remain a mainstream sport with massive global appeal.

Kickboxing

1. Training

Kickboxing is a stand-up combat sport that combines punches and kicks. It is derived from boxing and karate or Muay Thai which makes it highly dynamic.

BOXING VS KICKBOXING

Striking: In Kickboxing punches, kicks, knees, and sometimes elbows can be used.

Kicking Techniques: Roundhouse kicks, front kicks, and sidekicks are very essential to a kickboxers.

Punching: Like boxing, kickboxers also uses jabs, hooks, crosses, and uppercuts in their fight.

Footwork and Defense: Footwork sport drills and blocking kicks are key components of training in this combat sport.

Cardio: The Kickboxing training includes intense cardio drills to improve endurance, speed and stamina of athlete.

2. Techniques

  • Striking: It Uses a combination of punches and kicks. Depending on the style (e.g., Muay Thai). Knee and elbow strikes may also be included.
  • Defense: Kickboxers mainly Focuses on blocking, parrying, and dodging the punches and kicks in their match.

3. Fight Format

Rounds: Kickboxing matches are typically have 3-5 rounds and each round goes 2-3 minutes.

Judging: The kickboxing are judged on the basis of effective strikes, knockdowns, and ring control.

4. Pros and Cons

Pros

  • As you know kickboxing is full body combat sports and it is great for full-body conditioning
  • It allows both punches and kicks which making it more versatile as compared to boxing.
  • Easier to learn as compared to mixed martial arts (MMA) because it includes few techniques.

Cons

  • Lacks ground fighting, limiting the combat range
  • In kickboxing there is higher risk of leg injuries due to frequent kicks
  • Can be physically demanding due to the combination of upper and lower body strikes

5. Scope

Kickboxing is less mainstream than boxing or MMA. But it still has a global presence, especially in Asia and Europe. Promotions like GLORY and K-1 keep the sport alive and there are various opportunities for both amateur and professional fighters.

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MMA (Mixed Martial Arts)

1. Training

Striking and Grappling: MMA fighters should must master both striking (punches, kicks, knees, and elbows) and grappling (takedowns, submissions, and ground control).

BOXING VS KICKBOXING

Cardio and Strength: MMA requires a mix of cardiovascular conditioning and strength training to handle the variety of techniques that are used in a fight.

Ground Game: Learning ground control, submissions, and escapes is essential. Training of MMA also includes wrestling, BJJ, and judo.

Defense: Fighters should train in defending both strikes and takedowns. They also train submissions on the ground.

2. Techniques

MMA Includes a Wide Range of Techniques From Multiple Martial Arts:

  • Striking: Uses punches, kicks, elbows, and knees from boxing, kickboxing, and Muay Thai.
  • Grappling: Includes takedowns, submission holds, and ground control techniques from wrestling, BJJ, and judo.
  • Defense: Fighters need to defend against strikes, takedowns, and submissions.

3. Fight Format

Rounds: MMA matches usually consist of 3 rounds, each lasting 5 minutes, with championship bouts going up to 5 rounds.

Judging: Fights are judged based on effective striking, grappling, control, and aggression.

4. Pros and Cons

Pros

  • It offers a complete combat experience by combining striking and grappling.
  • MMA has versatile training that develops all-around combat skills.
  • It gives high entertainment value to viewers and fans due to diverse techniques.

Cons

  • It is tough to learn due to the variety of skills involved.
  • It has a higher injury risk due to the mix of striking and grappling
  • This is less structured than pure martial arts. It leads to a chaotic fight style at times.

5. Scope

MMA is a rapidly growing sport due to promotions like the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship). The sport has a global fan base and MMA fighters have profitable opportunities through professional fights, sponsorships, and international competitions.

Frequently Ask Questions

Boxing focuses only on punches and upper-body strikes. Kickboxing includes both punches and kicks. It offers a more dynamic striking game. MMA is the most versatile sports. In MMA combining striking (punches, kicks, elbows, and knees) with grappling and submissions and included that make it a comprehensive combat sport.

Boxing is generally considered the most beginner-friendly due to its straightforward techniques and focused training. Kickboxing and MMA require learning and more diverse skills.  Kickboxing and MMA is slightly more challenging for newcomers.

MMA has a higher overall injury risk because it includes striking, grappling, and submissions. Which expose fighters to a variety of combat scenarios. However, boxing carries has minor risks of head injuries due to repeated punches to the head. While kickboxing involve risks from frequent kicks and potential leg injuries.

Yes, switching from boxing to MMA or kickboxing is possible but additional training is required. For MMA you will need to learn grappling, submissions, and ground control. For kickboxing you will need to master kicks and include lower-body strikes into your game.

Kickboxing offers the best full-body workout as it involves both upper and lower body strikes. It improves strength, endurance, and flexibility. MMA provides all-around conditioning but it is more demanding. While boxing mainly focuses on upper-body strength and cardio.

Boxing matches typically range from 3 to 12 rounds and each round durations is 3 minutes. Kickboxing bouts last 3 to 5 rounds and each round durations is 2-3 minutes. MMA fights usually consist of 3 rounds of 5 minutes each, with championship bouts extending to 5 rounds.

Conclusion

Choosing between Boxing, Kickboxing, and MMA depends on your personal goals and interests. Boxing offers a straightforward but intense workout focused on hand strikes. Kickboxing offers a combination of punches and kicks. It is a dynamic option for those who are looking for an intense cardio workout that involves both upper and lower body strikes. Lastly, MMA provides a complete combat experience making it ideal for those who want to master all aspects of fighting. Each sport has its own training regimen, techniques, and fight formats. That make them suitable for different types of athletes.

Author

  • I am a passionate writer and boxing enthusiast with extensive experience in reviewing and analyzing sports equipment. With a keen eye for detail, focus on delivering insightful content that helps readers make informed decisions. My work on reviewingboxing.com provides expert recommendations on the best boxing gear, ensuring that athletes of all levels have the tools they need to excel. When not writing, I enjoy practicing boxing techniques and staying up-to-date on the latest trends in the sport.

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