Muay Thai
Muay Thai The Ancient Martial Art
Muay Thai, or ‘Thai boxing’ as it is known across the world, is a form of martial art, practiced in Thailand for over 2000 years. Thai boxing is in itself an art and is not only of fighting, but for the mind – requiring discipline and respect as well as knowledge of the ancient traditions.
Thai boxing involves several areas of the body, including the hands, elbow, feet and knees making it different from traditional forms of boxing. As such Thai boxing is a great way to stay in shape. It enhances the flexibility of the body, helps to build muscle, improves the circulation of the blood and keeps the bones healthy.
Another factor that differentiates Muay Thai from other forms of boxing is the fact that it is performed to music. This music is known as ‘Sarama’ and is played both before and after the fight. Before the fight, each side will perform to the music to show respect for those who helped them learn how to fight and got them to where they are today. The music is extremely important is raising the spirits of the fighter and gearing them up to fight with all their physical and mental strength.
The teacher is essential in Thai boxing. Before the fight and throughout their lives those who practice Muay Thai will remember their trainer who bestowed upon them all their knowledge not only of fighting, but of the discipline that goes with it. He will also remember he parents and anyone else who assisted them in where they are today.
Important points that are learned as part of Thai boxing include the weak, and even fatal, spots of the opponent’s body. This makes the fighting easier, though those who practice the art must still be brave in order to defeat their opponent. Being brave includes a lack of physical fear, as well as a respect for the morals involved in life and fighting. The art requires discipline and truth and as such trains people for life as well as fighting.
You may have heard of some of many of the great fighters that Muay Thai has produced. These are known all over the world both for their strength, courage and honour. Samart Payakaroon held the title of ‘Baby Face Tiger’, whilst Muay Thai boxer Buakaw Por Pramuk has won the k-1 Max World Championship twice from the age of 22 – a competition held in Japan that determines the best stand up fighter in the world. There are several other famous Muay Thai champions, including Somrak Khamsing who won Olympic gold in 1996, Kaoklai Kaennorsing who held the title of the ‘giant killer’.
It is clear that Muay Thai boxing is just as popular today as it once was in the kingdom of Thailand over 2000 years ago. Still it breeds great fighters and helps people to control their body as well as protect themselves and keep healthy both in body and in mind.
