What we’ll do in this article is a rather difficult task. We’ll review two martial arts, which are fairly similar, and compare them as deeply as we can. Then, I’ll give a clear and concise answer as to which one is better. The martial arts I’ll compare are Muay Thai, aka The Art of Eight Limbs, and Kickboxing.
Whether you want to train in one of them or not, you’re interested in knowing whether they’re the same and which is better. I’ve already done my research and have years worth of experience in fighting, so I think can handle it.
While Muay Thai and Kickboxing provide the same benefits, they differ from each other. The first is a striking-based martial art that also incorporates clinching techniques, elbowing, and knee strikes. The latter, on the other hand, only focuses on punching and kicking, which Muay Thai also does.
In short, they’re different. However, what you’ll go through in this article is a process that will allow you to understand which is more suitable to your needs; to your desires. This article will help you personalize your path by breaking down Kickboxing and Muay Thai and allowing you to choose more wisely.
So without further introduction; I know you’re excited, as I am stoked. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
- Muay Thai vs. Kickboxing – Differences
- Muay Thai vs. Kickboxing – Similarities
- Should I Learn Kickboxing or Muay Thai?
- Which Is Better, Kickboxing or Muay Thai?
- Final Words
Muay Thai vs. Kickboxing – Differences
The first part of this article is going to be dedicated to differences. While Muay Thai and Kickboxing are similar, they have many differences between them. Therefore, it’ll be best if we break them down as deeply as possible, so you can eventually choose the one YOU want to learn.
I want to remind you; this article is about you, not me and not anyone else. You can benefit from this article, so pay close attention and let’s dive into the first difference.
Techniques Taught
The first, and most important, difference is the actual techniques you’ll learn. As I previously have mentioned, you’ll learn to punch and kick in both fighting styles, which is great. They’re both striking martial arts, allowing you to learn to use your fists and feet to cause tons of damage.
However, they differ in the sense that you’ll learn more techniques in Muay Thai. In it, you’ll also learn to use your elbow and knee to cause damage. However, it’s not all, you’ll also learn to clinch effectively, which is one of the most important techniques in martial arts.
Clinching isn’t allowed in most Kickboxing competitions. By the way, it’s also not allowed in Boxing, which is another striking-based martial art. As a result, Muay Thai gains a point for the techniques because you’ll learn more in it, which is almost always the better option.
To recap, you’ll learn to punch and kick in both martial arts. That includes the jab, cross, hook, uppercut, low kick, roundhouse kick, side kick, and switch kick (there are many more.) However, Muay Thai includes more techniques, such as the straight elbow, knee strike, and clinch (which will take years to control and master.)
Aggression Levels
The second difference is aggression levels. While both Kickboxing and Muay Thai are effective for self-defense, one embraces aggression more than the other. Therefore, it might be more suitable for those who want to get in the face of their opponents and dominate the fight.
Muay Thai is a more aggressive martial art than kickboxing, as it includes close-range fights as much as long-range ones. You’ll learn to kick from long-range and from close-range, which both are important to know. In Kickboxing, you’ll learn to use long-range alone while not learning to get in the face of your opponent.
The Clinch
The third difference (which we kind of discussed already) is the use of the clinch. I’ve decided to dedicate an entire section to the clinch because of its importance to the Art of Eight Limbs.
Indeed, it’s one of the fundamental techniques you’ll learn in Muay Thai. You’ll be able to use it to dominate your opponent from close range by throwing knee strikes and elbows. There’s something I haven’t mentioned yet which is extremely important to understand.
Muay Thai also includes sweeps and throws. You can, especially from the clinch, sweep your opponent from a standing position so he ends up on the ground. So it also teaches sweeps, which are highly effective for self-defense.
Think about the massive advantage you can gain in a real self-defense situation if you sweep your opponent and get on top of him. You’ll be able to dominate the fight and come out victorious.
To learn more about clinching in Muay Thai and how to use it effectively, follow the first link. To learn about Muay Thai’s best sweeps you must know, follow the second link.
Knees and Elbows
The 4th, and final, difference we’ll review in this article is the use of knees and elbows. In Kickboxing, you won’t learn to use your knees and elbows, which are extremely effective and painful from close range. However, you’ll learn to do so in Muay Thai, which embraces aggression and close-range fights, as we’ve discussed.
Therefore, if that is something that interests you, Thai Boxing is more suitable for you to learn.
So these are the differences. I want to address a key point here. There’s nothing worse than not having to decide between two endeavors and ending up not choosing one because you’re afraid you’ll make a mistake. Hesitation in this instance is something you must avoid.
Make sure to choose the one you want to learn quickly and start learning it. I know it can be scary and difficult, but if you do that, you’ll be in a far better position than 95% of people wanting to do the same.
Muay Thai vs. Kickboxing – Similarities
The second part of this article will be about the similarities between Muay Thai and Kickboxing. The similarities are just as important to know as the differences, as that’ll allow you to understand something very, very important.
The takeaway you’ll get from understanding the similarities is that it doesn’t really matter which one you’ll choose. Both are extremely valuable to know and will better you as a fighter and as a person.
Indeed, Kickboxing and Muay Thai will give you the same benefits. Both are valuable for self-defense, self-improvement, and self-development.
So without further ado, let’s dive into the first similarity.
Risks Included
The first similarity is the risk included in doing both sports. According to a study conducted on Kickboxing amateurs, the most commonly injured anatomic regions were the head (57.8%) and lower extremity (26.1%). Essentially, the head and limbs are the most injured parts.
Well, if we compared that to Muay Thai; one of the most common injury spots is the head and limbs. So essentially, they include the same risks. I know it can be scary to get in the ring and fight someone else.
However, you’ll be able to learn so much about yourself by putting yourself out there and stepping out of your comfort zone. While getting in the ring and fighting is definitely a terrifying experience at first, it’ll eventually fade, and so will your mentality toward life improve!
Self-Defense
The second similarity is their effectiveness in self-defense scenarios. Both Muay Thai and Kickboxing are fighting styles. While they might provide many benefits, including increased confidence, higher self-esteem, and even better physical shape, they’re, first and foremost, combative sports.
You’ll learn to fight in both martial arts, which is, in my eyes, one of the most important skills in today’s world.
There are many vicious cycles in today’s world. One of the more common ones is inaction leads to lower self-confidence, which leads to inaction. However, taking action and learning to fight will lead to another cycle. This cycle is action, which leads to confidence, which leads to more action.
So take action and go to the gym as soon as possible. Start training and the results will come; that I can promise.
Purpose
The last similarity we’ll review in this article is purpose. Everything goes back to purpose. Why do you wake up in the morning and do the things you do? That question is very important if you’re working hard on a goal day after day. Eventually, with the right purpose, all goals become manageable and you start taking action toward achieving these goals.
Kickboxing and Muay Thai are martial arts that are hard to learn. It’s not difficult to understand that training in martial arts is an arduous experience. So you must have a purpose before you begin your training. Why will you wake up at 5 am and go train?
The reasons are vast and I can give you many examples. However, your purpose has to come within you. You might already know why you train, which is excellent. If you don’t, however, you must start analyzing and understanding why you want to do the things you do.
This is key in both Kickboxing and Muay Thai!
Should I Learn Kickboxing or Muay Thai?
Kickboxing: Kickboxing is a hybrid martial art that combines elements of boxing with kicking techniques. It typically focuses on punches, kicks, knee strikes, and sometimes clinching techniques. Kickboxing is known for its fast-paced and dynamic nature, making it a great option for cardiovascular fitness and developing striking skills. It is often practiced as a sport, with rules and regulations for competitions.
Muay Thai: Muay Thai, also known as Thai Boxing, is a traditional martial art from Thailand. It is an ancient and highly effective striking art that utilizes punches, kicks, elbows, knees, and clinching techniques. Unlike Kickboxing, Muay Thai incorporates the use of elbows and knees, adding an extra dimension to the striking repertoire. It is a popular martial art for self-defense, fitness, and is often regarded as one of the most effective stand-up fighting systems.
Factors to Consider:
- Techniques: If you’re interested in incorporating elbow and knee strikes into your arsenal, Muay Thai might be more appealing to you. Kickboxing focuses primarily on kicks and punches.
- Fitness and Conditioning: Both martial arts offer excellent workouts, but the training style and intensity can vary. Muay Thai training can be more physically demanding due to the addition of clinching and the use of all limbs.
- Goals: If you’re interested in competition, both styles have their own set of rules for matches. Research the local opportunities for each sport in your area if you have a competitive mindset.
- Cultural Aspect: Muay Thai has a strong cultural heritage from Thailand, and many practitioners enjoy the traditions and rituals associated with it.
All in all, both martial arts provide similar benefits. Both will teach you self-defense and make you a better person. And remember, hesitation is much worse than choosing the less suitable one for you. So make sure to start training in either as soon as possible.
Which Is Better, Kickboxing or Muay Thai?
Muay Thai is a better martial art than Kickboxing because it includes more fighting techniques, which are the clinch, elbow, and knee strike while being a more aggressive martial art. Both, however, are suitable for self-defense, self-improvement, and provide generally the same benefits.
Final Words
To end this article on a high note, I want you to choose the martial art you’re going to learn. I know it can be difficult to step out of your comfort zone and start training. I know how it feels because I’ve been there.
The struggle of starting something new can be more difficult than the thing itself, which is ironic. However, your mind wants to stay lazy and in the same spot. So make sure to challenge yourself often and begin new endeavors often.
Here are other articles you’d benefit from:
The Ultimate Guide to Muay Thai Gear: Must-Have Equipment
How to Catch Kicks in Muay Thai – It’s Actually Simple!
Check 101 – A Complete Muay Thai Technique Breakdown
Muay Thai Basic Head Movement – Techniques, Drills, and Tips
The Ultimate Guide to Muay Thai Footwork – Including Drills!