September is here, summer is behind us, and for many of us that means getting back into a regular training routine. For new members especially, this can also be the perfect time to explore what IMPACT has to offer and discover which discipline feels right for you.
One of the great things about martial arts is that there is no single “right” way to train. Some people love the technical precision of Boxing, others enjoy the intensity of Muay Thai, while others find their passion in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Wrestling or MMA. At IMPACT, your membership gives you the freedom to explore different disciplines and find the style that fits your personality, goals and interests.
Kickboxing: Fast, Technical and No Contact
Our Kickboxing classes are a great starting point for anyone who wants to get into martial arts but would prefer to avoid physical contact and sparring. The classes focus on punches, kicks, combinations, movement, coordination and fitness, without the contact element. This makes Kickboxing an ideal option if you want to learn striking techniques, get a challenging full-body workout and enjoy the atmosphere of martial arts without having to worry about getting hit.
It is also a great choice for beginners who may feel a little hesitant about contact training. You can build confidence, learn the fundamentals and become comfortable with the movements at your own pace. If you eventually decide that you want to experience contact and sparring, you can gradually take the next step by trying Boxing.
Boxing: Your First Step Into Contact
Boxing is a fantastic way to transition from non-contact training into the world of sparring.
The focus is on punches, footwork, defense, combinations, timing and movement. Once you are comfortable with the fundamentals, you can gradually get introduced to controlled sparring and learn what it feels like to work with a partner in a live environment.
For many beginners, Boxing is a great middle ground. You get to experience the technical and physical challenge of martial arts while gradually becoming more comfortable with contact and sparring. And if you discover that you enjoy the intensity and want to take things further, Muay Thai is another natural step.
Muay Thai: The Art of Eight Limbs
Muay Thai is known for its use of fists, elbows, knees and kicks, which makes it one of the most complete striking disciplines.
Training involves a combination of technique, pad work, heavy bag work, conditioning, clinch work and sparring. Compared with non-contact Kickboxing, Muay Thai can be significantly more intense, both physically and mentally.
If you enjoy a dynamic training style with lots of variety, movement and close-range work, Muay Thai could be your flavor. It is a great option if you want to develop strong striking fundamentals while challenging your fitness, coordination and ability to stay composed under pressure.
For someone who is completely new to martial arts or not yet comfortable with contact, there is absolutely no need to jump straight into the most intense training environment. Starting with Fitness Kickboxing, then exploring Boxing and eventually trying Muay Thai can be a great way to build confidence step by step.
So, Which One Should You Try?
The honest answer is: try them. Reading about a discipline can give you an idea of what to expect, but you only really know what you enjoy once you step onto the mats.
Maybe you love the rhythm and movement of Kickboxing. Maybe you discover that you enjoy the challenge of Boxing and sparring. Maybe the intensity and variety of Muay Thai is exactly what you were looking for.
Or perhaps you discover that striking isn't your thing at all and that BJJ, Wrestling or MMA is where you really feel at home. That is completely fine. Finding your discipline is part of the journey. Your first choice does not have to be your final choice, and you are never locked into one style. Try different classes, train with different coaches and see what motivates you to keep coming back.
Find Your Flavor
At IMPACT, we believe that martial arts should be accessible to everyone, regardless of experience, fitness level or personal goals.
If you want to train without contact, Fitness Kickboxing is a great place to start. If you want to gradually get comfortable with contact and sparring, Boxing can be the perfect next step.
If you are looking for a more intense and complete striking experience, Muay Thai might be your flavor. And if striking isn't for you, there is a whole world of BJJ, Wrestling and MMA waiting to be explored.
Your membership gives you access to all of our martial arts classes at both our Zurich and Winterthur studios, so don't be afraid to experiment. Try something new. Step outside your comfort zone. And give yourself the chance to discover a discipline you might never have expected to love.
The best discipline is often simply the one that makes you want to come back and train again.
Find your flavor. Find your community. Find your IMPACT.
The IMPACT Martial Arts Team