Kickboxing vs Boxing: Which is Right for New Westminster Beginners?

If you’re in New Westminster and thinking about trying a combat sport, chances are you’ve heard great things about both boxing and kickboxing. Each offers a powerful mix of fitness, discipline, and self-defense. At Modern Warrior, we guide new students through both disciplines with our training programs that make it easy to find your best fit. 

Both boxing and kickboxing build strength and agility, yet they approach combat in unique ways. Boxing focuses on precision, timing, and strategy through hand strikes, while kickboxing incorporates a broader range of movement with kicks, knees, and full-body coordination. With expert coaches like Jason Hartstein and Sasha Tadayoni leading the way, Modern Warrior provides a safe, supportive environment for beginners to develop real skills. 

The Art and Science of Boxing

Jason Hartstein is a certified NCCP Boxing Coach with years of hands-on experience training both amateurs and professionals. Jason spent seven years working with top-level fighters, studying everything from foot placement to ring strategy. That analytical approach has shaped the way Modern Warrior teaches beginners’ boxing classes today: by breaking complex techniques into clear, digestible steps that build solid foundations. 

Boxing is more than just throwing punches; it’s about rhythm, defense, and intelligence. Jason’s classes emphasize the importance of body control, efficient movement, and reading opponents. Students learn to think strategically while building endurance, reflexes, and coordination. For example, they might drill combinations that teach how to slip punches while countering effectively. 

His trademark padwork style — fast, technical, and visually dynamic — makes training both challenging and engaging. For beginners, Jason’s detailed coaching ensures that every jab and hook comes from proper mechanics, helping you progress quickly and safely toward real boxing confidence.

The Power and Precision of Kickboxing

Sasha Tadayoni brings over 30 years of global martial arts experience to New Westminster. Having trained and competed internationally across disciplines like Karate, Muay Thai, Wrestling, and Jiu-Jitsu, Sasha’s classes combine the best of each art form into a cohesive and exciting kickboxing system. His training background ensures that every student learns not just how to kick or punch, but how to move with purpose and precision. 

At Modern Warrior, students develop powerful striking skills, balance, and flexibility, all while improving cardiovascular endurance. The sessions are intense but beginner-friendly, emphasizing good technique and control over raw power. What sets Modern Warrior apart is Sasha’s focus on adapting traditional combat principles to real-world situations — making his approach perfect for those looking to learn kickboxing in New Westminster, not just for fitness, but for practical self-defense. With his mentorship, you’ll gain not only physical strength but also the confidence to perform under pressure. 

Which Should You Choose as a Beginner?

When deciding between boxing and kickboxing, think about your personal goals. If you’re interested in mastering precision, power, and timing, boxing classes are an excellent place to start. Under Jason’s guidance, beginners learn to use footwork, defense, and combinations that form the foundation of striking arts. Boxing also helps develop cardiovascular endurance and sharp mental focus. For those who enjoy technical drills and progress measured in increments, boxing offers a deeply rewarding path. 

On the other hand, if you’re drawn to more variety and movement, kickboxing might be your match. Sasha’s classes combine the hands of a boxer with the kicks and knees of Muay Thai and Karate, delivering a full-body workout that builds strength, balance, and coordination. Kickboxing tends to be a faster-paced activity, burning calories quickly while teaching practical self-defense techniques. 

Our programs are designed to welcome new students while challenging experienced practitioners. Every class blends traditional discipline with modern athletic performance. Students learn not just how to fight, but how to move, think, and grow as martial artists. 

Contact us today!

Are you ready to begin your journey? The time to start is now! Learn more about our class schedules, call us today at (604) 353-5627 or email [email protected] for details on how to join.