Muay Thai
An Introduction to Muay Thai
The popular martial art that is known as Muay Thai was first used as a form of close – quarters combat by Thai soldiers during early times. Known originally as Muay Boran, it was used in their clashes against the Burmese who is considered as their most bitter rivals during those times. It makes use of 8 body points to deliver strikes against an opponent. This body parts include the elbows, shins, knees, hands. This is different as compared to other forms of close – quarters combat which makes use of only two body points like boxing and four body points like taekwondo. This “Science of eight limbs” later on developed from being a method of killing to a form of recreation and enjoyment.
In Thailand where it originated, Muay Thai is so popular that it has been considered as an important part of the culture and identity of the Thai people. When people think or hears about the sport, the first thing that would always come to mind is a South East Asian nation that is full of passion for this exciting sport. Fights are held almost every day and they are given a wide exposure in television broadcasts, printed news and radio programs. It has been feature in numerous movies even computer games. The fame of the sport is such that it is definitely a part of the Thai way of life.
In the past, the rules that encompass the sport are so unrefined that a large number of deaths have resulted in the ring. Anyone can fight with each other and they don’t have any equipment to be used during the fight. Fighters would make use of only their bare hands and body parts or they make use of pieces of cloth or rope to cover their hands. Because of that, the Thai government made some rules and guidelines regarding the sport. Muay Thai fighters are then compulsorily equipped with protective gear like gloves for the hands, cups for the groin and mouth guards. In addition, different weight classes are introduced so that fights would become more fair and equal.
Before a Muay Thai fight, the combatants would perform an elaborate dance that is used to show respect for everyone who has the practiced the sport for the past years. It pays tribute to all of the sport teachers, students and participants. It is a kind of ritual that is done over and over again with every fight that occurs with no exceptions. This ritual is made up of three sequences which include the royal homage; the kneeling and the standing sequence.
The fight itself is something that is both fascinating and enjoyable. The fighters would circle each other like hungry animals waiting for chance to pounce and strike. However, once the striking happens, the animals become dancers with their speed and fluid motion. Each of 8 different points would fly and try to hit any part of the opponent. Everything becomes a blur until all is left is one Muay Thai fighter standing and raising his arms in pride and contentment.
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Filed under: Martial Arts Styles
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