Muay Thai originated over 1000 years ago in Thailand and involves common blows like elbow thrusts, knee strikes, and high kicks that can result in death or injury. Kickboxing originated more recently in the 1970s from martial arts in Asia and focuses more on punching and kicking with safety rules and protective gear. While both involve kicking and punching, Muay Thai emphasizes knee and elbow strikes as decisive blows and originated as combat techniques, whereas kickboxing emphasizes safety and originated as a competitive sport.