Muay Thai
Originating from Thailand, Muay Thai translates into English as "Art of Eight Limbs". It gets this name because uses the eight points of contact, making use of punches, kicks, elbows and knee strikes.
It is known for its emphasis on conditioning, with training sometimes brutal. The art is specifically designed to promote a high level of fitness and toughness for ring competition.
Origins
Muay Thai finds its beginnings in ancient forms of kickboxing found in China and India, with some claiming that its roots can be traced back 1000 years.
It evolved from an older version Muay Boran (ancient boxing), which was an unarmed combat system taught to Siamese soldiers for when they lost their weapons in battle.
Techniques
Muay Thai techniques fall into 2 major groups: mae mai (major techniques) and luk mai (minor techniques). Most moves in Muay Thai use entire body movement, rotating the hip with each kick, punch, elbow and block.
- Punching (Chok)
- Elbow (Ti sok)
- Kicking (Te)
- Knee (Ti khao)
- Foot thrust (Thip)
- Clinch and neck wrestling (Chap kho)
For more information please see: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muay_Thai
Author: The Bear Martial Arts Team
