Although Kickboxing and Muay Thai share certain resemblances, such as their popularity and combat sport nature, one might mistakenly assume they are nearly identical except for their names. However, this assumption is not accurate. Although they have some common techniques, they provide totally different fighting styles and rules. Bellow we list down some key differences between these sports:
- Origin: Muay Thai originated in Thailand and has been practiced for centuries as a form of self-defense and military combat training. Kickboxing, on the other hand, was developed in Japan and the United States in the 1950s and 1960s.
- Striking System: Muay Thai has an eight-point striking system where fighters are allowed to use elbows and knees in addition to punches and kicks, while Kickboxing has a four-point striking system which limits fighters to use only punches and kicks.
- Clinching and Grappling: Muay Thai includes the use of clinch work, where fighters can grapple and strike in close range, while kickboxing does not allow clinching.
- Kicking Techniques: Muay Thai kicking is usually executed differently from kickboxing. For example, a Muay Thai kick is thrown by turning the hip and connecting it with the shinbone (the tibia) whereas various types of kickboxing usually involve ‘snapping’ the knee to throw a kick and it is often connected to the foot. Also, in Muay Thai, it is very rare for a fighter to kick with foot or lower shin, whereas in Kickboxing, fighters are allowed to apply a broad range of kicks including using their feet, middle shin and lower shin alike.
- Fighting Rule: In Muay Thai, shin kicks and strikes below the waist are allowed but the groin area is off limits because of sportsmanship. While in a kickboxing regulated fight below waist strikes are not permitted.
- Culture and philosophy: Muay Thai has deep roots in Thai culture and is often seen as a form of national pride. The sport also incorporates aspects of Thai Buddhism and spirituality. Kickboxing, on the other hand, has a more modern and international appeal, and is often seen as a fitness and sport-oriented activity.
