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Kickboxing
Kickboxing is essentially a combination of karate and boxing. The sport took root in the U.S. during the 1970's as American karate practitioners grew increasingly frustrated with the strict controls placed on martial arts competitions - they didn't allow full contact kicks and punches. In other words, the goal was not to use strength to knock out the other fighter, rather to use speed and agility to score points.
Originally known as "Full Contact Karate," there were many concerns as to the increased risk of injury this new sport might present. Because of that, protective gear like shin guards, foot guards, chest protectors and headgear were added and safety rules were reinforced. Early bouts were fought like ordinary karate matches, on open matted areas, although the rules weren't clearly defined. Later, the bouts were staged in rings and the protective equipment removed for professional matches. The early stars and pioneers of the sport include Lewis, Bill Wallace, Benny Urquidez, Rick Roufus and Jeff Smith. These men fought around the world and the popularity spread. Sanctioning bodies like the WKA were formed along with a ranking system. Non-title fights consisted of 4-10 rounds. Title fights consisted of 12 rounds.
Since its inception, the sport has grown and changed considerably. Today, there are many different sets of rules under which fighters can participate - American, full contact and international rules. The rules vary. For example, American rules allow only kicks to the body (leg kicks are considered fouls). International rules do allow kicks to the legs, but no clinch or knees. In full contact rules, at least 8 kicks per round are required by each fighter or a point will be deducted. All styles do allow punches to the body and head but in contrast to Muay Thai, none allow elbows, knees or clinching.
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