Kickboxing Techniques

There is one thing that cannot be stressed enough to new kickboxing students -- technique, technique, technique! "Punching and kicking are somewhat violent on the body," warns Roberts. "Because the positions are somewhat extreme, when they're done incorrectly people can hurt themselves!"

Five Kickboxing Mistakes to Avoid:

1. Never fully extend or lock-out a joint while punching or kicking.

2. Always pivot the supporting heel to point in the direction of the kicking leg when doing a roundhouse or side-kick (or risk tearing knee ligaments).

3. Don't try to kick too high. Keep it down until gaining familiarity with the moves and increasing flexibility.

4. Never wear/hold weights when throwing punches -- this puts delicate joints in danger.

5. Avoid getting caught up in the group excitement and exercising too hard. Beginners should find a level that's appropriate for them and then gradually work up to a whole class.

If your gym has Intro to Kickboxing on the schedule, by all means take it! If not, Roberts suggests learning the fundamental moves beforehand either from an instructor or by watching a really good DVD that takes you through the form points of each punch and kick. That way when you do join a kickboxing class, you'll be ready to workout instead of struggling to keep up.

STEP ONE: Need to Know: Kickboxing Workout Basics
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