UFC, Pride, and etc...

[karate man]

As far as kicks taught in TKD or Karate, they're taught speed because you're striking for points as opposed to power. Should you ever find yourself on the receiving end of a Muay Thai kick, you'll know what I mean. I've trained in karate and TKD- their style of kick is thrown AT you and designed to get in and out quick, at the expense of power. A Muay Thai kick is thrown THROUGH you- your opponent is literally trying to break you in half with his leg.

Like Rick 72. I also dunno what style of Karate you trainned before. In karate, we were taught to able to "one hit one kill." Yes, there is time we want to get in and out quick, but there are also times we want to penetrate, and finish fight in one hit. They are just different techics with different intention.

I've had the chance to train with some muay thai fighters and I've had experience in karate and tae kwon do. The kicks are completely different. I remember when I held the pad in karate for people who I used to think kicked hard- this changed when I held it for the muay thai fighters. A karate kick may want to drive through the opponent, but the same details arent addressed as would be in a muay thai class. Watch the way the thai fighters turn their hips over when they kick and how their leg looks like an axe chopping down trees. Better yet, dont take my word for it, go to a class, hold the pads and see for yourself