Thai Boxing

Thai Boxing History

Thai boxing (also known as Muay Thai) is a martial art form that is practiced in much of southeastern Asia. As the name suggests, it is widely practiced in Thailand, where it is considered the national sport. Members of the Thai military also practice a modified version of Thai boxing. Some forms of boxing in India are remarkably similar to Thai boxing. This martial art form is also known as The Art of the Eight Limbs, because it requires the use of two hands, two shins, two elbows, and two knees. Most other combat sports, like western style boxing and various other martial arts, use only two limbs (just hands), or four limbs (hands and feet).

Buddhist monks helped to popularize Thai boxing by carefully practicing and preserving old tradition of the art. Eventually, the common man became interested in learning this type of martial arts. Many traditional Thai festivals feature contests between two Thai boxing fighters. It was also used for things such as self defense, physical fitness, and common warfare techniques. Several rituals from the ancient times are still prevalent in Thai boxing. Fighters often kneel before entering the ring, pray with their coaches, and walk in circles after entering the ring. Each ritual has a special meaning dating back thousands of years.

How Thai Boxing Influenced Kickboxing

Kickboxing is a combination of two sports, karate and something known and Thai boxing. It first began found in the country of Japan, where fights involving these two sports took place. Karate gurus from Japan would engage in competition with Thai boxers, eventually leading participants to adapt to the opposite techniques. The sport of kickboxing utilizes kicking, strategic karate style moves, and punching with boxing gloves. It was also influenced by other martial arts such as taekwondo. Many professional fighters view kickboxing as a very loose version of Thai boxing, citing that it does not require as much discipline or technique.

Thai Boxing Rules

Thai boxing has a set of rules set in place by the World Muay Thai Council, however, since it is practiced in many different countries, the rules have a tendency to vary. Participants are divided into weight classes from Mini Flyweight (105 lbs. or less) up to Super Heavyweight (209 lbs. or more). Each weight class wears gloves of a specific weight as well. Biting, eye gouging, delivering a blow to the groin area, and head butting are not allowed in Thai boxing. If a fighter commits any of these offenses, they are penalized. These are just a few of the rules that govern Thai boxers.