What is kickboxing? Everything you need to know about the sport

Kickboxing is a combat sport and form of training that combines techniques from boxing with kicks from martial arts such as karate and Muay Thai. The sport is popular all over the world – both as a competitive sport and as a workout for fitness, strength and self-defence. In Norway, kickboxing is one of the fastest-growing martial arts, with thousands of active athletes of all ages.

The history of kickboxing

Kickboxing emerged in the 1950s and 60s in Japan and the USA, as a fusion of traditional boxing and karate. In Japan, Osamu Noguchi developed the sport as a full-contact variant of karate, while American athletes combined boxing with martial arts kicking techniques. Today kickboxing is an international sport with millions of athletes, and is organised through bodies including WAKO (World Association of Kickboxing Organizations) – the largest and most recognised organisation globally.

Different styles of kickboxing

Kickboxing isn't one single style, but an umbrella term for several related combat sports:

• Point fighting (light contact): Points are awarded for controlled punches and kicks. Popular with beginners and children. Requires light protective gear.
• Light contact: Continuous fighting with controlled power. A focus on technique and flow.
• Full contact: Harder punches and kicks are allowed. Most similar to traditional boxing, but with kicks allowed above the waist.
• Low kick: Like full contact, but kicks to the thighs (low kicks) are allowed. A very popular competition discipline.
• K-1 / Kickboxing: Combines punches and kicks, including knees in some variants. Known from major international tournaments.

Kickboxing in Norway – WAKO and NKBF

In Norway, kickboxing is organised under NKBF (Norges Kickbokseforbund, the Norwegian Kickboxing Federation), which is affiliated with WAKO. NKBF organises the Norwegian Championships, the Norwegian Cup and other national competitions. WAKO sets the standards for approved gear – which is important to know if you are going to compete.

Read more: Guide to WAKO kickboxing – disciplines, gear and competition requirements

The gear you need to start kickboxing

To train kickboxing safely, you need the right protective gear. Here are the essentials:

• Kickboxing gloves: Specially adapted for kickboxing with good protection and mobility. Choose 10–14 oz depending on weight and use.
• Hand wraps: Always under your gloves – they protect your wrists and knuckles.
• Mouthguard: Mandatory in sparring and competition.
• Shin guards: Needed to protect your shins and insteps when sparring.
• Headguard: Recommended for beginners and when sparring.
• Kickboxing shorts: Give freedom of movement for kicks.

Is kickboxing good for you?

Kickboxing is one of the most versatile forms of training there is. Here are some reasons to try it:

• Fitness and endurance: A kickboxing session burns 500–800 calories and gives excellent cardio training.
• Strength and coordination: You train the whole body – arms, legs, core and balance.
• Self-defence: You learn effective techniques that can be used in self-defence situations.
• Mental strength: Discipline, focus and self-confidence are central values in kickboxing.
• Social environment: Kickboxing clubs are known for great team spirit and an inclusive environment.

Kickboxing for children and young people

Kickboxing is an excellent activity for children from age 6–7 and up. Children learn discipline, respect and motor skills in a safe and structured environment. Most clubs offer dedicated children's classes with adapted training and light protective gear.

Frequently asked questions about kickboxing

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