From Kickboxing to MMA: Different Types of Strikes and Their Uses
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is now one of the most popular combat sports in the world. It is a combination of various martial arts styles such as kickboxing, Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and wrestling, among others. In this article, we will focus on the striking techniques used in kickboxing and MMA, and their different uses in each sport.
Kickboxing Strikes
Kickboxing is a combat sport that uses punches, kicks, and knee strikes. Its striking technique is derived from karate, boxing, and Muay Thai. The two main types of strikes in kickboxing are:
- Jabs and Crosses - These are basic punches that are used to set up more powerful strikes or to maintain distance from an opponent. They are quick and straight punches that can be used to create openings for kicks or follow up with other strikes.
- Roundhouse Kicks - These are powerful kicks that are used to strike an opponent's body or head. They are typically executed by pivoting on the lead foot and swinging the rear leg towards the target. They are ideal for inflicting damage to an opponent and can cause knockouts.
Other types of strikes used in kickboxing include hooks, uppercuts, push kicks, and spinning back kicks. These strikes are used to confuse opponents and create openings for other attacks.
MMA Strikes
MMA is a sport that combines striking, grappling, and ground techniques. In striking, fighters typically use a combination of kicks, punches, elbows, and knees. Unlike kickboxing, MMA does not restrict any types of strikes, allowing fighters to use any technique they choose. Some of the most common strikes used in MMA include:
- Straight Punches - These are quick and powerful punches that can be thrown in rapid succession. They are usually used to set up other strikes or to create openings for takedowns.
- Leg Kicks - These are powerful kicks aimed at the opponent's thigh or calf. They can be used to wear down an opponent's legs and limit their mobility.
- Spinning Backfist - This is a powerful strike that is executed by spinning the body and striking with the back of the fist. It is a risky move that can cause significant damage to an opponent if executed correctly.
- Muay Thai Knees - These are powerful knee strikes that can be used to inflict significant damage to an opponent. They are usually delivered after a clinch or when an opponent is in close range.
- Elbows - These are close-range strikes that can cause significant damage to an opponent. They are usually used in the clinch or ground-and-pound situations.
Other types of strikes used in MMA include spinning back kicks, high kicks, and Superman punches. Fighters can use different types of strikes to set up takedowns and submission attempts, making striking an essential aspect of MMA.
Uses of Strikes in Kickboxing and MMA
The use of strikes in kickboxing and MMA differs significantly, despite the fact that both sports involve striking. In kickboxing, the emphasis is mostly on scoring points through kicks and punches, while in MMA, strikes are used to create openings for takedowns and submission attempts. The following are some of the most common uses of strikes in kickboxing and MMA:
- Scoring Points - In kickboxing, strikes are used to score points and win rounds. The more effective a fighter's strikes are, the more points they can accumulate.
- Wearing Down an Opponent - In MMA, leg kicks are used to wear down an opponent's legs and limit their mobility. This makes it easier to take them down and go for a submission attempt.
- Set Up Other Strikes - Both in kickboxing and MMA, fighters use strikes to set up other strikes. For example, a jab can be used to set up a leg kick, or a feint can be used to create openings for other strikes.
- Create Openings for Takedowns - In MMA, strikes can be used to create openings for takedowns. This is particularly true for wrestlers, who often use strikes to close the distance and take their opponents down to the mat.
- Create Openings for Submission Attempts - In MMA, strikes can be used to create openings for submission attempts. For example, a fighter can strike an opponent's arm to create an opening for an armbar or a triangle choke.
Conclusion
The use of strikes in kickboxing and MMA differs depending on the sport's focus and rules. In kickboxing, strikes are primarily used to score points, while in MMA, they are used to create openings for takedowns and submission attempts. Regardless of the sport, the effective use of strikes requires speed, accuracy, and power, making it an essential aspect of combat sports.