The man behind most of this trend is Billy Blanks, the seven-time Martial Arts champion. He is seen on many Tae-Bo infomercials and videos. Unlike other types of kickboxing, cardio kickboxing does not involve physical contact between opponents.

All four kicks performed in a cardio kickboxing class should include four phases: chamber, strike, re-chamber, and return. These four kicking phases ensure kicks you are executing them in the safest way possible.

Front kick: Stand with feet shoulders' width apart. Bend your knees slightly, and pull your right knee up toward your chest. Point your knee in the direction of an imaginary target. Then, kick out with the ball of your foot.

Cardio Kickboxing is a total body workout that involves utilizing multiple muscle groups to elevate the heart rate and train participants in speed, agility, and quickness.

Side kick: Start with the right side of your body facing a target. Pull your right knee up toward your left shoulder, and bend your knees slightly as you kick in the direction of your target. The outside of your foot or heel should be the part that would hit the target. Repeat with your other leg.

The 3 Different Types of Kickboxing Kicks. The three common kicks used in kickboxing are the lead kick, the rear kick, and the hook kick. Combine them with punch combos for a full body workout at home!

Rules: Fighters are allowed to strike their opponent with punches and kicks including kicks below the waist, except for the groin. Elbows and knees are forbidden (with the exception of some competitions). Clinch fighting, throws and sweeps are allowed.