The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Kickboxing!

Welcome to the Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Kickboxing!
Are you ready to start your kickboxing journey? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything step by step, so you can step into the gym with confidence. From choosing the right gear to selecting the perfect gym, we’ve got you covered. All recommended products are available directly in our webshop.
Essential Kickboxing Equipment
- Which boxing gloves do I need?
- Which shin guards should I use?
- Hand wraps & inner gloves
- The importance of a mouthguard in kickboxing
- More about groin protectors
- How to maintain your kickboxing gear
- How to choose the right kickboxing gym
- Is your kickboxing set complete?
Kickboxing Essentials
As a beginner, choosing the right equipment can feel overwhelming. Here are the basic essentials for a safe and effective training experience:
In addition to these essentials, you can upgrade your gear with useful accessories like kickboxing shorts, breathable t-shirts, and a spacious sports bag.
Which Boxing Gloves Do I Need?
Your choice of boxing gloves depends on your training goals and frequency:
Beginners (1-2x per week)
- Synthetic leather (PU) gloves are budget-friendly and ideal for new kickboxers.
Advanced Fighters (>2x per week)
- Genuine leather gloves are more durable, less prone to tearing, and offer better protection.
Professional Quality (>3x per week)
- Made in Thailand or Performance gloves provide the best protection, craftsmanship, and materials.
Read more about choosing the right boxing gloves here.
Which Shin Guards Do I Need?
Your choice of shin guards depends on your training type:
- Bag Training – Cotton shin guards are lighter and budget-friendly.
- Sparring – Opt for pre-shaped shin guards with Velcro straps for the best fit and protection.
- Professional Quality – For the most intense training sessions, ergonomic shin guards with extra padding and secure closures are the best choice.
Read our extensive shin guard guide here.
Hand Wraps & Inner Gloves
Wearing boxing gloves or kickboxing gloves requires extra protection in the form of hand wraps or inner gloves. This prevents injuries to your knuckles and wrists and prolongs the lifespan of your gloves by absorbing sweat.
Hand wraps offer optimal protection as they can be individually wrapped for targeted support. Available in different lengths:
- 280 cm – Suitable for youth and women, ideal for beginners or for use with MMA and bag gloves.
- 350 cm – Perfect for adult beginners or advanced youth/women who want extra support.
- 450-500 cm – Best for experienced fighters who require maximum support and advanced wrapping techniques.
Inner gloves are a convenient alternative for those who prefer a quicker, hassle-free option. They offer wrist supportand knuckle protection with a gel or foam layer.
Read more about hand wraps and inner gloves here.
The Importance of a Mouthguard in Kickboxing
A mouthguard is essential for protection in kickboxing. The shock-absorbing material distributes the impact of punches and kicks across your jaw and teeth, reducing the risk of injury.
What size mouthguard do you need?
- Kids' mouthguards – Suitable for children up to 11 years old.
- Adult mouthguards – For ages 11 and up.
All mouthguards in our collection meet safety standards and are kickboxing-approved.
Learn how to properly mold your mouthguard and find the best fit for you.
More About Groin Protectors
A groin protector (cup) is an essential piece of gear in sports like kickboxing, MMA, and boxing. Just like a mouthguard, it is often mandatory in training and competition due to the protection it provides.
There are two types of groin protectors:
- Standard groin protector – Made of plastic with a rubber edge, providing comfort and effective protection.
- Metal groin protector – Offers extra durability with a metal cup and an elastic band for a secure fit.
Find out which groin protector is right for you in our detailed guide.
How to Maintain Your Kickboxing Gear
Proper maintenance of your gear extends its lifespan, prevents bad odors, and ensures safe and hygienic training.
- Boxing gloves and shin guards should be cleaned after every training session with a mild soap solution and antibacterial spray, then left to air dry.
- Kickboxing clothing and hand wraps should be washed as per instructions, avoiding fabric softeners to maintain moisture-wicking properties.
Find out how to keep your gear in top condition in our detailed maintenance guide.
How to Choose the Right Kickboxing Gym?
Now that you have all your gear, it’s time to find a kickboxing gym. Use this checklist to choose the best one:
✔ Experienced Trainers – Are the coaches professional fighters or skilled instructors?
✔ Location & Accessibility – A gym close to home increases motivation.
✔ Cost – Does the membership fit within your budget?
✔ Training & Private Lessons – Is there a structured training plan and private coaching options?
✔ Opening Hours – Do they match your schedule?
✔ Facilities – Are there additional amenities like showers or a sauna?
✔ Hygiene – A clean gym prevents infections and injuries.
Check out some of the top kickboxing gyms in the Netherlands here.
Kickboxing Set Complete? Here Are Some Extra Essentials!
Want to expand your kickboxing gear? Consider these additional items:
- Kickboxing shorts & shirts – Designed for maximum mobility and ventilation.
- Sports bags – Spacious and designed with ventilation to keep gear fresh.
- Deodorizing sprays – The perfect solution to remove unwanted odors from training gear.
- Training equipment – From pads and strike shields to punching bags, ideal for intense workouts and skill improvement.
You’re Ready to Start Kickboxing!
With this complete guide, you are now fully prepared to begin your kickboxing journey.
Have any questions? Let us know or visit our store in Almere for personalized advice!
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