Every expert in Kickboxing started exactly where you are now—with a first step that felt uncertain but promising. The beauty of Kickboxing lies in its accessibility and the way it welcomes newcomers to build skills progressively, one move at a time. Whether your goal is fitness, self-defense, or competition, setting a solid foundation early makes the journey manageable and rewarding.
Names like Pat O'Keeffe, a seasoned competitor who faced world champions and served 30 years with the London Fire Brigade, and Nathan Demetz, a certified personal trainer who blends fitness with martial arts, have shaped the beginner Kickboxing landscape. Their books reflect a careful balance of technique and encouragement, making complex moves understandable and approachable.
While these beginner-friendly books provide excellent foundations, readers seeking content tailored to their specific learning pace and goals might consider creating a personalized Kickboxing book that meets them exactly where they are. This option offers a bespoke learning path that complements expert recommendations and respects your unique progress.
Pat O'Keeffe brings a unique blend of real-world fighting experience and disciplined training to this book. A 6th Degree Black Belt and international competitor who faced world champions, he distills his knowledge into an approachable beginner's guide. His long career in the London Fire Brigade and passion for martial arts deeply inform his teaching style, making this book a practical resource for anyone starting kickboxing with clear, structured instruction.
Pat O'Keeffe is a member of the Crime Writers Association and The Society of Authors. His first three crime novels, Thermal Image, Burn Out and Blowtorch were all published by Hodder and Stoughton. His novels, written to appeal to both male and female readers, are Noir Thrillers set in a contemporary urban landscape with the characters frequently viewed through a dark philosophical glass; menace, latent eroticism and irony providing the backbeat. His latest thriller, Blind Chance, published by Kindle, is a fast-moving Crime Thriller set in Amsterdam and London. Born in East London, he first joined the army then the London Fire Brigade, in which he served 30 years, 23 of them as an Operational Station Officer. Throughout his life, his passions have always been Martial Arts, Literature, Film, and Walking. The first of these led him to become an author of three books on Kick Boxing - Kick Boxing a Framework for Success, Combat Kick Boxing, and Advanced Kick Boxing. He has competed in the ring as a kickboxer at international level and fought 28 times. His opponents included three World Champions and Nigel Benn, who went on to become the WBC World Middleweight Boxing Champion. He is a 6th Dan [6th Degree Black Belt] in both Kick Boxing and Karate Jutsu. In 2003 he completed thirty years of service with the London Fire Brigade - twenty-three of them as an Operational Station Officer and in 1981 he became a Member of the Institute of Fire Engineers. 1991 saw him fulfill one of his ambitions by climbing Mount Triglav, the highest mountain in the Julian Alps [9,393 ft]. He has also trekked through the backcountry in the Canadian Rockies, from Mount Norquay to Lake Louise through the Sawback Range and 2008 saw him walking across the dramatic and seismically active Icelandic landscape. Website: www.pat-okeeffe.com
Drawing from his extensive martial arts background and decades as a London Fire Brigade officer, Pat O'Keeffe offers a clear pathway for first-time kickboxing learners in this illustrated guide. You’ll explore fundamental techniques, training frameworks, and fight strategies that demystify what can seem like a complex discipline. O'Keeffe's experience competing internationally against world champions lends practical authority, especially in chapters breaking down stance, footwork, and striking combinations. Whether you want to build confidence, improve fitness, or prepare for competition, this book equips you with accessible skills and insights without overwhelming jargon or assumptions about prior experience.
Nathan Demetz is a certified personal trainer and fitness kickboxing instructor with over a decade of strength training and several years practicing martial arts. His hands-on experience with competitive athletes and certifications through the International Sports Sciences Association give him a solid foundation to teach newcomers. This book reflects his approachable teaching style, offering clear photos and step-by-step instructions that demystify kickboxing basics for anyone starting out. Nathan’s background ensures you’re learning from someone who understands both the physical and instructional demands of introducing beginners to kickboxing.
Nathan Demetz is a personal trainer from Indiana. He has long been an avid fitness enthusiast and became a martial arts practitioner in recent years. He has been weight lifting for 12 years and practicing martial arts for three. Nathan is a Certified Personal Trainer (CPT)/Certified Fitness Trainer (CFT) with the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA). He is a Certified Fitness Kickboxing Instructor through the Kickboxing Fitness Institute. Nathan is currently pursuing Sport Nutrition Certification through ISSA. Nathan had the opportunity to meet and learn from a USAPL state ranked power lifter, two NPC bodybuilding competitors, and other local, amateur, and competitive athletes. He is the owner/operator of Nathan DeMetz Personal Training.
Unlike most kickboxing books that jump straight into complex routines, this guide offers a clear path for newcomers to master foundational techniques. Nathan Demetz, a certified personal trainer and kickboxing instructor, draws from years of martial arts and fitness experience to break down essential stances, punches, kicks, and defensive moves across six focused chapters. You’ll find detailed photo guides paired with straightforward explanations, such as how to execute a teep push kick or a downward elbow, making it easy to practice solo or with a partner. This book suits anyone wanting to build confidence in self-defense or enhance fitness without feeling overwhelmed by advanced tactics.
This custom AI book on kickboxing mastery is crafted after you share your experience level, learning preferences, and specific goals. It focuses on creating a comfortable pace for developing skills, easing beginners into essential techniques while guiding advanced learners toward mastery. With AI tailoring, the content matches exactly what you need to build confidence and competence without feeling overwhelmed. It’s your personal roadmap to mastering kickboxing step by step.
TailoredRead AI creates personalized nonfiction books that adapt to your unique background, goals, and interests. Instead of reading generic content, you get a custom book written specifically for your profession, experience level, and learning objectives. Whether you're a beginner looking for fundamentals or an expert seeking advanced insights, TailoredRead crafts a book that speaks directly to you. Learn more.
This tailored book explores kickboxing techniques from beginner fundamentals to advanced skills, designed specifically to match your background and personal goals. It reveals a progressive learning path that builds confidence through a carefully paced introduction, reducing overwhelm by focusing on foundational movements before advancing. The content is crafted to engage your unique interests and skill level, ensuring a comfortable and effective journey into kickboxing mastery. By concentrating on your individual learning needs, this personalized guide helps you develop strength, precision, and fluidity in your strikes and footwork at your own pace.
Justyn Billingham started training in taekwon-do at fourteen and expanded his expertise through karate and kickboxing, achieving several dan grades including third dan in kickboxing. Over twenty-two years, he earned multiple tournament titles and became known for his authority on stretching and dynamic kicking. As a monthly columnist for Martial Arts Illustrated magazine, Justyn brings a wealth of practical knowledge and a beginner-friendly teaching style to this book, making it an ideal guide for those starting their kickboxing journey.
Justyn Billingham started training in taekwon-do at the age of fourteen and also took up karate and kickboxing to further advance his training and knowledge of martial arts. Over a period of twenty-two years he has achieved several dan grades including a third dan in kickboxing. Justyn has held various titles throughout his tournament years, and is considered by many to be an authority on stretching and dynamic kicking. Justyn is currently a monthly columnist for Martial Arts Illustrated magazine. Resident - Berkshire.
Unlike most martial arts books that rush into complex moves, Justyn Billingham removes barriers for newcomers by guiding you through foundational kickboxing techniques with clear explanations and supportive drills. Drawing from over two decades of diverse martial arts experience—including taekwon-do, karate, and kickboxing—he emphasizes injury prevention, flexibility, and core skills like basic punches and advanced hand techniques. Chapters on warming up properly and developing specialized stretches like the box and front splits provide practical skills that benefit beginners aiming for long-term progress. This book suits anyone physically fit who wants an accessible, steady path from novice to black belt, without overwhelming jargon or unrealistic expectations.
Andy Dumas is a distinguished Canadian boxing coach and certified fitness consultant who has worked closely with the World Boxing Council to develop best practices in physical training and medical basics. Alongside him, James Turner, a Hall of Fame martial artist and international kickboxing champion, brings firsthand expertise from years of competition and teaching. Their combined experience ensures the book is both authoritative and approachable, designed to guide you through the essentials of full contact kickboxing with clarity and encouragement.
Andy Dumas is a distinguished Canadian boxing coach, certified fitness consultant, instructional author, TV personality and motivational speaker. Working alongside the World Boxing Council, Andy has been integral in the development of The World School of Boxing, which offers best procedures and practices for physical training and medical basics. This is his third book for Crowood. James Turner is an accomplished kickboxing champion and Hall of Fame martial artist. He competes internationally as well as being a sought-after seminar instructor. Alongside his fighting career, James is passionate about contributing to the martial arts community, and teaches kickboxing and self-defence to schools, fitness gyms, private groups and corporate clients. He lives in the UK.
What started as a collaboration between a seasoned Canadian boxing coach and a Hall of Fame kickboxing champion became an accessible manual that demystifies full contact kickboxing for newcomers. You’ll find detailed guidance on technical skills like precise kicks above the waist and structured training routines that emphasize physical conditioning and mental discipline. The book’s over 380 photographs illustrate techniques clearly, making it easier for you to improve form and strategy steadily. Whether you’re an amateur stepping into the ring or a martial arts enthusiast curious about kickboxing’s nuances, this guide offers practical insights to build your confidence and competence without overwhelming jargon.
Liam M Camm is a martial arts expert with extensive experience in kickboxing. He has dedicated his career to teaching and promoting martial arts, focusing on the techniques and strategies that make kickboxing an effective form of self-defense and fitness. His passion for the sport is evident in his writing, where he aims to share his knowledge with both beginners and advanced practitioners. This book reflects his commitment to making kickboxing accessible and effective for all skill levels.
Liam M Camm is a martial arts expert with extensive experience in kickboxing. He has dedicated his career to teaching and promoting martial arts, focusing on the techniques and strategies that make kickboxing an effective form of self-defense and fitness. His passion for the sport is evident in his writing, where he aims to share his knowledge with both beginners and advanced practitioners.
Liam M Camm draws from his extensive martial arts background to deliver a clear, approachable guide to kickboxing that caters especially to newcomers. You gain access to nearly a thousand detailed photos illustrating striking combinations, clinch techniques, and warm-up routines, making complex movements tangible and easier to grasp. The book balances foundational drills with advanced techniques, letting you progress at your own pace, whether you're just starting or refining your skills. With tools like class plans and stretch sequences, it becomes a practical companion for both solo practice and group training sessions. If you're seeking an entry point that respects the nuances of kickboxing without overwhelming, this book meets that need straightforwardly.
This AI-created book on kickboxing basics is crafted based on your experience level and learning goals. You share which foundational techniques and drills interest you most, and the book focuses on building your skills at a comfortable pace. Personalization matters here because mastering kickboxing fundamentals can feel overwhelming otherwise. By honing in on exactly the moves and drills that fit your background and goals, this tailored guide helps you progress confidently without unnecessary frustration.
TailoredRead AI creates personalized nonfiction books that adapt to your unique background, goals, and interests. Instead of reading generic content, you get a custom book written specifically for your profession, experience level, and learning objectives. Whether you're a beginner looking for fundamentals or an expert seeking advanced insights, TailoredRead crafts a book that speaks directly to you. Learn more.
2025·50-300 pages·Kickboxing, Kickboxing Basics, Fundamental Techniques, Stance And Footwork, Punch Combinations
This tailored book offers a clear and gradual introduction to essential kickboxing moves and drills designed specifically for beginners. It explores foundational techniques and builds your confidence through a learning experience that matches your skill level and pace. You’ll find content that removes overwhelm by focusing precisely on what you need to know to start strong, making the journey accessible and engaging. The personalized approach ensures that the instruction fits your individual comfort and goals, helping you master basics that form the cornerstone of kickboxing practice. Each section emphasizes clarity and simplicity, promoting steady progress while respecting your unique learning preferences.
Peter Belmar is an accomplished Thai kickboxer with over 15 years of professional experience and a remarkable fight record including 79 wins worldwide. Transitioning from competitor to coach, he has dedicated himself to teaching beginners, leveraging his extensive background to make Thai Kickboxing accessible. His book distills complex martial arts into clear, photo-illustrated steps, reflecting his deep knowledge and passion for the sport. This approach ensures newcomers can start learning confidently and effectively under expert guidance.
Peter Belmar is an accomplished Thai kickboxer who has been competing in the sport since 1984. He has competed internationally in kickboxing and Muay Thai, winning a number of titles in Western amateur boxing, representing the Fitzroy Lodge Boxing Club against teams from Holland, Germany, Gibraltar and Guernsey. Peter fought as an amateur boxer for five years. As a successful professional Thai kickboxer for 15 years he competed around the world in America, France, Holland, Italy, Sweden and Thailand with a fight record of 79 wins (35 being KOs); 7 defeats and zero draws. In 1993, wanting to give something back to his fans and to share with others the sport he loves, Peter turned his attention to coaching. As well as being a professional martial artist he has a wealth of experience in the recreation and leisure industry having worked for nine years as a professional sports instructor coaching adults and children of all ages, both male and female. Peter currently teaches Thai Kickboxing for beginners.
What started as Peter Belmar's desire to share the art of Thai Kickboxing with newcomers became a clear, approachable manual designed specifically for beginners. Drawing from his extensive professional fight record and coaching experience, Belmar breaks down techniques with step-by-step photos that demystify complex moves. You’ll learn foundational strikes, defensive postures, and the rhythm unique to Muay Thai that sets it apart from other martial arts. This book suits anyone eager to start kickboxing without feeling overwhelmed by technical jargon or advanced strategies—perfect for building a solid base in this dynamic sport.
John Ritschel, a martial artist since age 12 with black belts in Taekwondo and Kickboxing and honored as 'Fighter of the Year' by the London International Martial Arts Hall of Fame, brings his extensive experience to this accessible handbook. Known for his clear teaching style, Ritschel wrote this book to offer beginners a straightforward path into kickboxing, combining detailed technique photos with practical advice on equipment and training. His background ensures you’re learning from someone who understands how to build skills safely and effectively from the ground up.
John Ritschel started martial arts at the age of 12, and has studied various disciplines including Karate, Taekwondo, Kickboxing, and more. He holds black belts in Taekwondo and Kickboxing, and has been recognized as 'Fighter of the Year' by the London International Martial Arts Hall of Fame. Ritschel is the author of multiple martial arts handbooks.
256 pages·Kickboxing, Martial Arts, Fitness, Self Defense, Stamina Building
Drawing from decades of martial arts expertise, John Ritschel crafted this handbook to break down kickboxing for newcomers without overwhelming them. You’ll find clear, step-by-step photographs illustrating kicks, punches, sweeps, and blocks, making complex moves approachable. The book also covers essential equipment and the sport’s evolution, providing context alongside technique. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to reinforce fundamentals, this guide balances practical skill-building with confidence-boosting insights that help you develop stamina and stress relief through kickboxing.
Build skills confidently with custom advice tailored to your goals and pace.
Tailored learning plans
•Focused technique drills
•Boosted training confidence
Many successful pros started with these foundations
Kickboxing Mastery Blueprint
The Fundamentals Formula
Kickboxing Confidence Code
30-Day Kickboxing System
Conclusion
The selected books share clear themes: approachable instruction, progressive skill building, and an emphasis on fundamentals that prepare you for more advanced training. If you're completely new to Kickboxing, starting with books like "Kickboxing 101" or "The Kickboxing Handbook" offers a gentle introduction to core techniques and fitness. For a more structured progression, moving through Pat O'Keeffe’s "Kick Boxing" to Justyn Billingham’s "Kickboxing" provides a path from basics to black belt readiness.
Remember, building a strong foundation early sets you up for success, whether your focus is self-defense, competition, or fitness. Alternatively, you can create a personalized Kickboxing book that fits your exact needs, interests, and goals to create your own personalized learning journey.
Kickboxing is a journey best taken step by step, with trusted guidance and clear goals. These books—each with its own focus and teaching style—offer that reliable start so you can build confidence and skill with every punch and kick.
Frequently Asked Questions
I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?
Start with "Kickboxing 101" by Nathan Demetz. It offers clear, photo-guided basics perfect for newcomers who want to build confidence without confusion.
Are these books too advanced for someone new to Kickboxing?
No, every book here is designed with beginners in mind, breaking down moves step-by-step to ensure you develop skills safely and effectively.
What's the best order to read these books?
Begin with foundational guides like "Kickboxing 101" or "The Kickboxing Handbook," then progress to more comprehensive books such as Pat O'Keeffe’s "Kick Boxing".
Do I really need any background knowledge before starting?
No background is necessary. These books assume no prior experience and help you build fundamentals from the ground up.
Which book gives the most actionable advice I can use right away?
"Full Contact Kickboxing" provides practical training routines and strategies that you can apply immediately to improve your fitness and technique.
Can personalized Kickboxing books complement these expert guides?
Absolutely. Personalized books tailor the learning pace and focus to your goals, enhancing the expert knowledge in these guides. Try creating your own Kickboxing book to match your exact needs.
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