Have you ever wondered how the French have added their flair to the world of kickboxing? Step into the world of savate, the French boxing style that combines the elegance of martial art with powerful kicking techniques. From its origins in the streets of Paris to its formalization as a competitive sport, savate has a rich history and a unique set of techniques that set it apart from other kickboxing styles. So, what makes savate so intriguing and why is it considered the ultimate kickboxing martial art?
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Savate is a French kickboxing martial art that combines elements of English boxing with kicking techniques.
- The name “savate” comes from the French word for “old shoe or boot,” reflecting the footwear worn by savate fighters.
- Savate originated in France in the 17th century and has a rich history that blends street fighting techniques with formalized sport.
- Unlike other kickboxing styles, savate only allows foot kicks, making it a unique and challenging martial art form.
- Savate is practiced worldwide and offers a full-body workout while improving fitness, agility, and mental well-being.
History and Origins of Savate
The history of savate can be traced back to the early 19th century when it gained popularity as a common form of street fighting in Paris and northern France. This unique martial art has a fascinating origin that merges French and English influences.
One theory suggests that during the time of Napoleon Bonaparte, soldiers used kicking techniques to punish their prisoners, giving rise to the term “savate.” The name itself comes from the French word for “old shoe or boot,” referencing the specially designed footwear worn by savate fighters.
Savate originally developed as a slipper fighting form known as Chausson or jeu marseillais in Southern France, while the style practiced in northern France was called savate. Early savate techniques focused on high kicks and open-handed slaps, with kicks kept low to avoid legal penalties for using closed fists.
The modernization of savate can be attributed to Charles Lecour, a French fighter considered the pioneer of this martial art. Lecour formalized savate in 1838, incorporating elements of English boxing into the techniques and opening training schools to propagate the art.
While savate enjoyed a period of popularity, it later declined in the 20th century. However, it has experienced a resurgence in recent years and is now recognized as a unique ring-fighting art that combines French kicking with English boxing. Today, savate has gained global recognition and is appreciated for its rich history and technical prowess.
Famous Savate Fighters
Throughout its history, savate has produced numerous skilled fighters who have left their mark in the world of martial arts. Some notable savate fighters include:
- Pierre Vigny – Known as the “Father of Modern Savate,” Vigny revolutionized the sport with his innovative techniques and training methods.
- Charles Charlemont – A renowned savate instructor, Charlemont is credited with popularizing the sport and played a key role in its development.
- Pierre Baruzy – A highly successful savate competitor, Baruzy achieved great success in international competitions and was a decorated champion.
- Guy Dubois – Dubois is considered one of the best savate fighters in history and has won multiple world titles in his career.
“Savate is not just a sport; it is an art that requires discipline, technique, and a deep understanding of the body’s mechanics.” – Pierre Vigny
| Year | Event | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 1825 | First recorded savate match | Marked the beginning of organized savate competitions |
| 1838 | Charles Lecour formalizes savate | Standardized the techniques and established training schools |
| 1924 | Savate included as a demonstration sport in the Summer Olympics | First official recognition of savate on the international stage |
| 2005 | Foundation of the International Savate Federation (FISAV) | Unified the global savate community and regulated the sport |
Savate Today and its Benefits
Savate, a modern striking art, continues to thrive in the world of martial arts. With practitioners of all ages and both genders, it has gained immense popularity on a global scale. As a regulated sport, modern savate offers various levels of competition to cater to different skill sets and preferences. These include assaut, which focuses on technique, pre-combat, a full-strength fighting format with protective gear, and combat, a full-contact fighting style with limited protective gear.
One of the key attractions of savate is its strategic nature that combines athleticism with the mastery of techniques. Known for its graceful and lightning-fast style, savate emphasizes precise strikes, innovative movements, and the art of evasion. Practitioners of this martial art can enjoy a full-body workout, enhancing their fitness, agility, flexibility, and mental well-being.
Savate’s influence extends beyond its dedicated community, as it has made an impact on other martial arts styles. Techniques from savate have been incorporated into various disciplines, including Jeet Kune Do, a martial art influenced by the legendary Bruce Lee, and mixed martial arts (MMA). This integration showcases the effectiveness and versatility of savate as a striking art.
As a recognized combat sport, savate is governed by the International Savate Federation (FIS) and enjoys recognition from international sports organizations. National federations actively promote and organize savate competitions and events, driving the growth and development of the sport. With its rich history and continuous evolution, savate provides a platform for martial artists and savate practitioners alike to showcase their skills, compete, and contribute to the vibrant world of combat sports.
While there are many different ways to improve oneself in the realm of martial arts, savate stands out as a sophisticated and practical discipline that tests the body and mind. Learning kicks and punches is only one aspect of the path into savate; another is accepting a legacy that has endured and still empowers people to pursue excellence in both their physical and emotional well-being. I take the lessons of savate, a combination of heritage, skill, and perseverance, with me when I hang up my training gloves because they go well beyond the gym.
FAQ
What is savate?
Savate, also known as French boxing or boxe Française, is a French kickboxing combat sport that combines elements of English boxing with kicking techniques.
How did savate get its name?
The name “savate” comes from the French word for “old shoe or boot,” which refers to the specially designed boots worn by savate fighters.
Where did savate originate?
Savate originated in France in the 17th century and was practiced by sailors in the port of Marseille.
What are some savate techniques?
Savate techniques include various kicks, such as fouetté, chassé, revers, and coup de pied bas, as well as punches from English boxing.
Can you learn savate at home?
Yes, learning Savate at home is possible through platforms like the London Savate World Academy, offering virtual coaching and video lessons.
What does savate focus on?
Savate emphasizes speed, balance, and precision, predominantly relying on leg work to execute a series of rapid kicks, combining hand and foot techniques as weapons.
What is Dutch kickboxing?
Dutch kickboxing integrates techniques from Kyokushin karate, Western boxing, and Muay Thai. It involves Kyokushin-style kicks, setting it apart from American kickboxing.
Is savate still practiced today?
Yes, savate is still practiced today and has gained popularity worldwide, with practitioners of all ages and both genders.