A History of
Muay Thai
What's Muay Thai?
Muay Thai, which in English literally translates to “Thai Boxing”, is the national sport of Thailand. It's a combat sport derived from military origins. Roughly dating back to the time of the Sukhothai Kingdom in the 13th century.
Muay Thai is also known as the “Art of 8 limbs”. This is due to the use of strikes comprising both the left and right limbs of the body. The 8 points of contact being punches, elbows, knees, and kicks.
Modern Muay Thai has now gone global with people practicing in the sport for health, fitness, relaxation and to compete as both amateurs and professionals. Muay Thai is world wide!
Muay Thai
Tell me more
“Muay” translates to “boxing” in English, so Muay Thai is literally Thai boxing. Taking elements from Muay Boran, a precursor Thai martial arts which was developed for ancient warfare.
Muay Thai as a modern combat sport was first formalized in the early 20th century. The sport’s modern ruleset was influenced by British boxing where codified rules and the use of a boxing ring is utilised. Fighters also discontinued the widespread use of traditional rope hand coverings (known in Thai as “Kard Chuek”) instead opting to wear
western style boxing gloves during fight bouts.
Muay Thai is a stand-up striking sport with two competitors . Showcase their skill in using the art of 8 limbs to out class their opponent in a ring, cage or earth circle. Clinching (stand up grappling), sweeps and throws are also permitted.
Besides the 8-points contact, a key difference between Muay Thai and many other stand-up combat sports is its emphasis on traditional elements such as the pre-fight dance ritual known as Wai Kru Ram Muay, the head dress (Mongkon) and the Sarama music that accompanies each fight.
