As we’ve explored in our previous post on the birth of Dutch Kickboxing, this powerful martial art emerged as a fusion of Muay Thai and Western Boxing.
Today, we’re diving deep into the signature techniques that define Dutch Kickboxing and tracing their roots back to the ancient art of Muay Thai.
Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or just starting your journey at our Austin gym, understanding these connections will enhance your appreciation and execution of both styles.
The Dutch Low Kick
The low kick is perhaps the most iconic technique in Dutch Kickboxing. While low kicks are also present in Muay Thai, Dutch fighters have elevated this technique to an art form.
Muay Thai Root: In Muay Thai, low kicks are often used to weaken an opponent’s base and set up other attacks.
Dutch Evolution: Dutch kickboxers typically throw their low kicks with more hip rotation and a slight lean back, generating tremendous power. They often use it as a primary weapon, chaining multiple low kicks together to break down their opponent’s leg.
The Dutch Combination
Dutch Kickboxing is famous for its fluid combinations, typically ending with a powerful kick.
Muay Thai Root: Muay Thai emphasizes single, powerful strikes or short combinations.
Dutch Evolution: Dutch fighters string together longer combinations, often following a pattern of punches-kick or punches-kick-punch. A classic Dutch combination might be jab-cross-left hook-right low kick.
The Dutch Block
While Muay Thai practitioners often catch kicks, Dutch kickboxers have developed a unique blocking style.
Muay Thai Root: In Muay Thai, fighters frequently catch kicks to off-balance opponents and counter.
Dutch Evolution: Dutch fighters typically use a “shell” defense, blocking kicks with their arms and immediately countering. This allows for quicker responses and fits well with their combination-heavy style.
The Dutch Style Round Kick
The round kick in Dutch Kickboxing has a distinct flavor compared to its Muay Thai counterpart.
Muay Thai Root: Muay Thai round kicks typically involve rotating on the ball of the foot and striking with the shin.
Dutch Evolution: Dutch kickboxers often pivot less on their standing foot, resulting in a slightly more side-on kick. This sacrifices some power but allows for quicker recovery and combination work.
The Dutch Clinch
While not as prominent as in Muay Thai, Dutch Kickboxing has its own approach to the clinch.
Muay Thai Root: Muay Thai heavily emphasizes clinch work, with a variety of knee strikes and throws.
Dutch Evolution: Dutch fighters typically use the clinch more defensively or as a transition point. They focus on breaking the clinch quickly to resume their combination striking.
The Dutch Guard
The fighting stance in Dutch Kickboxing is a unique blend of Muay Thai and Western Boxing influences.
Muay Thai Root: Traditional Muay Thai stance is more upright with hands higher to defend against elbows and high kicks.
Dutch Evolution: Dutch Kickboxing adopts a lower guard more reminiscent of boxing, with hands closer to the chin. This facilitates quicker punching and better head movement.
Training Dutch Kickboxing in Austin
At our gym, we incorporate elements of both Dutch Kickboxing and traditional Muay Thai into our training programs. This blend allows our students to develop a well-rounded skill set that’s effective both in the ring and for fitness.
When practicing Dutch-style techniques, focus on:
- Fluid combinations ending with powerful kicks
- Quick, snapping low kicks
- Rapid transitions between punches and kicks
- Active defensive techniques that set up counters
Remember, while Dutch Kickboxing has evolved its own distinct style, its Muay Thai roots provide a deep well of techniques and strategies to draw from. By understanding and practicing both, you’ll become a more versatile and effective martial artist.
Whether you’re looking to compete or just want an exciting workout, exploring the connections between Dutch Kickboxing and Muay Thai can add new dimensions to your training.
Join us at the gym to experience these powerful techniques firsthand and discover how they can enhance your martial arts journey.
