Physiology is “the study of the functioning of normal, healthy people and their body structures” (Kent, p.421). 

Of particular interest, however, for Kickboxing coaches is performance physiology, which basically describes body functions during physical strain. To understand how different systems can be improved to increase performance, one must first know how they work. 

Characteristics of kickboxing

All disciplines in kickboxing can be characterised as explosive-strength-endurance sports. Meaning- an athlete needs a vast amount of speed, strength and endurance to achieve high performance. 

The ratio of training between each ability, however, might be highly dependent on discipline and fighting style. Therefore, it is stated that ring fighters might require more stamina and particularly pointfighters less, while with speed it is the exact opposite. However, pointfighters who predominantly kick also demonstrate high endurance and ring fighters with good movement and distance work are often very fast. 

Therefore, the best coaches will always know these general principals and apply them individually to each athlete. It is further noted that, this “individuality approach” is very important, when it comes to performance diagnostics. Not every discipline or fighting style, requires the same endurance, strength or speed. For example, if the student needs maximum strength and “explosiveness”, just sparring might not be the ideal approach as the cardiovascular system may limit the effectiveness of muscular improvement.

Therefore, coaches experience is vital in interpretation of performance tests. 

>>>Solely the coach may know what the fighter needs<<<

>>>Try to combine general and specific knowledge<<<