Kickboxing Fundamentals Lecture Notes
Lecturer: Gabriel Varga
Experience: Six-time pro kickboxing world champion
Introduction
- Unique content focused on kickboxing fundamentals.
- Audience includes beginners and those wanting to refine techniques.
Overview of Topics
- Stance
- Guard
- Punch Techniques
- Kick Techniques
- Knee Techniques
- Hand Defense
- Leg Defense
- Shadow Boxing
Stance
- Importance of a comfortable stance.
- Can be varied based on style:
- Shoulder Width: Toes pointing forward, back heel elevated for mobility.
- Flat Feet: Suitable for Muay Thai style.
- Upper body positioning:
- Avoid a straight back; slightly curl for protection.
Guard
- Hand positioning:
- Preferred: Hands above eyebrows, slight spacing for visibility.
- Importance of elbow positioning to protect from punches.
Punch Techniques
- Straight Punches:
- Palm down, hip leads, shoulder protects jaw.
- Keep elbow tucked to protect ribs.
- Hooks:
- Three preferences for thumb positions (up, down, towards body).
- Ensure elbow aligns with fist for support.
- Uppercuts:
- Start from knees, unwind body without pulling down.
- Keep elbow below fist for support.
Kick Techniques
- Front Kicks:
- Lift knee, pivot foot to extend the kick.
- Strike with the ball of the foot, not heel.
- Roundhouse Kicks:
- Pivot and rotate body for power.
- Strike with shin or foot, hands must protect head.
Knee Techniques
- Straight up from the stance; heel tight to bum.
- Protect face while kneeing;
- Opposite elbow to opposite knee for defense.
Hand Defense
- Basic Blocks:
- Redirect punches with shoulder and hand (parry).
- Turtle shell the head (arms up to protect).
- For hooks, bring elbow up to block.
Leg Defense
- For Round Kicks:
- Lift leg at 45 degrees to check kick, keeping hands up.
- Cross block for body round kicks (60-80% impact absorbs).
Shadow Boxing
- Simulate fight scenarios to practice techniques.
- Recommended: 3 rounds of 3 minutes, gradually increasing pace.
Conclusion
- Emphasis on rep practice for improving techniques.
- Addressed importance of returning to basics.
- Encouragement to engage in comments for further topics.
Call to Action
- Like the video, subscribe for more content, and practice diligently!