Boxing and karate are fighting art forms sharing the same goal -- to outwit and outmatch your opponent. Disciplines of strength and agility require extensive hours of repetition and training from masters or professional coaches. Both sports use various types of punches to achieve the end result, but karate also utilizes the feet and elbows. Understanding the similarities and differences between the disciplines can help you choose which is right for you.
Boxing Basics
Boxing involves striking your opponent with gloved hands; punches must stay above the waist and along the front of the body. Boxing utilizes four main punches -- the jab, straight, hook and uppercut. The jab is thrown with your leading hand, or the hand you are using to block your face. The straight typically comes from the hand that is not leading and is often thrown from your stronger hand. Your arm is bent when performing a hook and the power comes from your body, not your arm. The uppercut is another punch that uses body strength as you bring your fist in an upward motion toward your opponent.
Karate Basics
Karate is a Japanese-style martial art that involves weaponless combat, employing punches, kicks, chops and blocks with various parts of your body. Many karate disciplines exist, each with specific styles. In karate, you can strike with a closed fist or an open hand, depending on your intended target area. With a closed fist, you will strike your target with the first two knuckles of your hand, turning your wrist so that your fist faces down. Karate punches include the jab and uppercut, as well as the middle elbow and open palm strikes.
Similarities
Boxing and karate share similar characteristics. A fighter in either will use jabs and uppercut punches, performed in virtually the same way. Participants will not aim a punch at an opponent's shoulder or elbow; punches are most effective if aimed at certain areas of the face, chest and abdomen. Training for boxing and karate is also similar; seemingly endless hours of repetition are needed. Proper form and power must be practiced until it is second nature. Both sports utilize heavy bags and other cushioned targets for skill work. Sparring is also needed to hone skills and to prepare for a match or tournament.
Differences
Karate differs from boxing in that it requires you use kicks and blocks with legs and feet rather than just your hands. For this reason, karate training takes longer, as you have more skills to learn. You are also allowed to sweep or strike your opponent's legs, grapple with him and flip him onto the ground. With its broader scope, karate training can be considered more intensive, especially if you are training for competition. But boxing training is more focused, and you can become proficient in a shorter time.
Posted in: Boxing Training