People learn kickboxing for many different reasons. Probably the most common is to improve their level of fitness in a way that is more fun and interesting than hitting the gym or the pavement and running and lifting those extra pounds off.

Kickboxing is a viable alternative to the norms as it strengthens muscles and cardio at the same time, and, unlike a treadmill or weights, kickboxing is a dynamic sport that uses many constantly changing movements and combinations.

Rather than staring into space running like a hamster on a wheel, or repeating the same set of bicep curls over and over, kickboxing involves jabs, crosses, hooks, kicks, elbows, and knees in an unending series of combos. It can work your heart and lungs like nothing else, with its mix of steady aerobic and explosive anaerobic rounds; it builds strength in the core, arms, and shoulders as you hit the pads and bag (and keep your hands up!), and the endorphin hit you get at the end of each session is incredible.

A smaller number of people take up the sport with the intention of actually getting in the ring and fighting competitively. In many places it is viewed as a skill that can be used as a trade, a means of providing a living as well as self respect.

For all students though it provides a means of self defense that can be very useful if the situation arises.

This book is an easy-to-follow introduction to the techniques used in kickboxing for the beginner.

You'll learn:

- techniques for throwing punches, kicks, knees and elbows
- great warm ups
- proper stance
- creating dynamic striking combinations
- a short history of kickboxing
- important equipment