Savate, the elegant yet formidable art of French Boxing, is a martial discipline that fuses the precision of Western boxing with the dynamic flair of foot-based striking. Born in the bustling ports of 17th-century France and refined through centuries of evolution, Savate has transformed from a sailor’s street-fighting technique into a globally respected combat sport.
What is Savate?
Savate, also known as French Boxing or French Foot Fighting, is a French hybrid martial art and full-contact combat sport that combines principles of western boxing with a wide variety of kicking techniques.
Kicks:
- Fouette (Roundhouse Kick)
- Chasse (Side or front Piston-Action Kick)
- Revers (Reverse or Hooking Kick)
- Coup de Pied Bas (Low kick, a front or sweep kick to the shin)
Punches:
- Direct bras avant (Jab, Lead hand)
- Direct Bras arrière (Cross, Rear Hand)
- Crochet (Hook, bent arm with either hand)
- Uppercut (either hand)
The Origins of Savate
Savate originated in France in the 17th century and was practised by some sailors in the southern port of Marseille. According to historians, it was developed and learned by sailors on board the ships during their trips to the countries of the Indian Ocean and the China Seas. Subsequently, in every bar fight in French ports, it was common to see Savate kicks. Sailors called this type of combat “Chausson”, in reference to the slippers normally worn on board.
The two key historical figures in the history of the shift from street fighting to the modern sport of savate are Michel Casseux and Charles Lecour. Casseux opened the first establishment in 1825 for practising and promoting a regulated version of chausson and savate (Disallowing head butting, eye gouging, grappling, etc). However, the sport had not shaken its reputation as a street-fighting technique. Charles Lecour created a modern edition of the martial art by 1830. Charles Lecour incorporated boxing techniques with kicking techniques and showed how to use them together. He was the first to see savate as both a sport and a self-defence system. Charles Lecorur was the first to add English boxing gloves to the martial art, which allowed his students to train their punches without injuring their hands.
Savate was later codified under the Comité National de Boxe Française under Charles Charlemont’s student Count Pierre Baruzy (dit Barozzi). The Count is seen as the father of modern savate and was the 11-time Champion of France and its colonies, his first ring combat and title prior to the First World War.
Perhaps the ultimate recognition of the respectability of savate came in 1924 when it was included as a demonstration sport in the Olympic Games in Paris. In 2008, savate was recognised by the International University Sports Federation (FISU), which allows savate to hold official University World Championships.
The Styles of Savate
There are no separate styles of Savate, just one codified system of this martial art, and the main difference between Savate would be the teaching styles of different Savate instructors.
Benefits of Training In Savate
Full-Body Conditioning
Savate engages both the upper and lower body through precise kicks and punches, improving strength, endurance, flexibility, and coordination. The sport’s emphasis on footwork and agility also boosts cardiovascular health.
Mental Sharpness
Savate is as much about strategy as it is about technique. Practitioners develop quick reflexes, spatial awareness, and tactical thinking, skills that translate well beyond the ring.
Effective Self-Defense
Rooted in street-fighting origins, Savate includes practical self-defence like sweeps, throws and joint locks (especially in Savate de Rue). It’s a versatile system for real-world protection.
Precision and Control
Unlike some striking arts, Savate emphasises accuracy and control. Training refines your ability to deliver targeted strikes while maintaining balance and composure under pressure.
Confidence and Discipline
Learning Savate builds self-confidence through mastery of technique and progression through glove ranks. The structured training fosters discipline, respect, and personal growth.
Cultural and Historical Depth
Savate carries a rich French heritage, blending maritime history, military tradition, and modern sport. Training connects you to a global community and a legacy of martial innovation.
Inclusive and Accessible
Savate welcomes practitioners of all ages and fitness levels. With different competition formats (Assut, Pre-Combat, and Combat), it offers a safe and scalable path for everyone, from hobbyists to elite athletes.
From its gritty maritime origins to its recognition on the Olympic stage, Savate has carved out a distinctive place in the world of martial arts. Its combination of technical finesse, full-body conditioning, and strategic depth makes it a rewarding pursuit for individuals of all ages and skill levels. More than just a sport, Savate is a living legacy, one that continues to inspire confidence, discipline, and community among its practitioners.
