Muay Thai Workouts

Muay Thai is a hard martial art, having its origins in Thailand. In fact it is the national sport of Thailand. Art of Eight Limbs as it is referred to, is so because a wide range of techniques using elbows, knees, punches and kicks are involved. All these Muay Thai techniques form the core Muay Thai workouts. All those Muay Thai enthusiasts, who are interested in knowing about these workouts, this one is dedicated to you!

Workouts for Muay Thai

Basically, this martial art has a close semblance with Indochinese kick boxing styles. The techniques of Muay Thai are of 2 types. The Luk mai and the Mae mai, meaning minor techniques and major techniques respectively. So, Muay Thai workouts comprise both these aspects, which help the practitioner develop a fit body, great attacking and defense tactics. Workouts typically consist of activities essential in combat sports conditioning, for instance, shadow boxing, running, rope jumping, body weight resistance exercises and so on. In short, it has four parts - warm-up, resistance training, base workout and a cool down. Thai pad training is one of the cornerstones of Muay Thai workouts. The other things are focus mitts, sparring and heavy bag. However, all said and done, warm up before workout for Muay Thai is mandatory like any other simple workout routine.

Muay Thai Workout Routine

Routine #1
Swimming is one of the common activities, include swimming preferably in the early afternoon period of the day. Swimming allows anyone practicing Muay Thai, related functional movements like knees and shadowboxing against the resistance of water.

Routine# 2
Shadow Boxing is another inevitable part of Muay Thai workouts. Shadow boxing using only punches for a minute or so at low intensity, coupled with 3 minutes of high intensity, is great for starters. Kicking in the air too is expected in addition to this. Some of the punches you can do are left straight-right straight, left-right and left hook, left-right-left hook and right upper cut. Try out different permutations and combination of various punches and kicks. Now comes the focus mitts. Practice your punches on the focus mitts for 3 minutes. After a couple of such rounds, take a minute break. Best bet here is to have a partner. If that is not possible, visualize different spots you wish to target in the air.

Routine# 3
Most preferably for late afternoon, this routine includes around 3 to 5 skipping rounds, same number of rounds on the heavy bag, around 10 minutes of Muay Thai stretches and 5 rounds of pad work. Finally, end with push kicks on the heavy bag and a few rounds of sparring.

Muay Thai Exercises

Exercises included in Muay Thai workouts are not very different from what are done in the other normal exercise routines. These are basically cardio conditioning. Lots of squats, pushups, jumping squats, hill climbers and so on. For seasoned practitioners, calisthenics are also incorporated in the workout. The cooling down exercises bring the session to an end.

In addition to that, you can have strength building and weightlifting sessions in your Muay Thai workouts. Normally, beginners can commence with smaller bursts of resistance training and easier base workout.

Even if you are not looking at boxing as a profession or as a passion, Muay Thai workouts can augur extremely well for fitness and getting in an envious shape.
Take Care!

Muay Thai Kickboxing Techniques

Muay Thai Kickboxing Techniques

Muay Thai has its own unique techniques. But unlike other martial arts such as Wushu and Arnis, it doesn't use any weapons such as swords or sticks. Instead, this combat sport treats the body as a weapon itself. In the earlier times, Muay Thai consisted of weapons namely the head, fists, elbow, knee and the feet. These weapons were collectively known as Na-wa-arud. These days however, it is no longer allowed to use the head in competitions, but enthusiasts can still learn how to attack using the head for self defense.

What sets it apart from other martial arts is that it involves a variety of methods to attack and defend. Martial arts such as Karate and Taekwondo only focuses on the hand and feet when attacking. In this combat sport, all the parts of the body can be used to attack as well as defend. So to better understand how this combat sport works, let me share to you some basic moves and techniques used.

PUNCHING TECHNIQUES (CHOK)

Punching is less used in combat because it makes the fighter vulnerable to knee and elbow strikes from the opponent. It's considered to be less effective than other techniques such as elbow and knee strikes.

Types of Punches: straight punch, hook, swing, spinning back fist, upper cut, cobra punch, overhead punch

ELBOW TECHNIQUES (DHEE SORK)

The elbow is used in various ways in Muay Thai. It's also considered as one of the most powerful part of the body that you can use to attack your opponent.

Types of Elbow Techniques: elbow slash, horizontal elbow, upper cut elbow, forward elbow thrust, reverse horizontal elbow, elbow chop, double elbow chop, mid air elbow strike

KICKING TECHNIQUES (DHE)

Muay Thai also involves a lot of kicking. It's one of the its striking similarities to other martial arts.

Types of Kicking Techniques: straight kick, nutcracker kick, round house kick, diagonal kick, half spin half knee kick, spinning hill kick, down round house kick, axe hill kick, jump kick, step up kick

KNEE TECHNIQUES (DHE KAO)

Just like elbows, knees are also used in different ways. It's also considered as one of the most powerful part of the body that you can use to attack your opponent.

Types of Knee Techniques: straight knee strike, diagonal knee strike, curving knee strike, horizontal knee strike, knee slap, knee bomb, flying knee strike, step up knee strike

DEFENSIVE TECHNIQUES

There are different defensive techniques that you can use against attack. It is classified into six types namely: blocking, redirection, avoidance, evasion, disruption and anticipation.

In search of a good Muay Thai trainer? Heart Start Fitness offers personal Muay Thai lessons and Muay Thai training. Learn Muay Thai now!

Download Muay Thai Game

Muay Thai Game Download: Def Jam - Muay Thai Kickboxing

Def Jam - Fight For NY

Def Jam: Street fighting meets hip hop lifestyle. An interesting mix but an enjoyable one at that. This game is definently no holds barred and great for fans of beat em ups and fighting sims. If you are a fan of the Smackdown! wrestling game series proceed with caution; the controls are more UFC styled and are difficult to master, it took me a while to get into the way of the game.

The only other flaw this game has is the hip hop lifestyle can be too in your face and a bit overloading, the original was more leniant and had less of the attitude but the same amount of thrills. The brutality of the fights and vicious moves will keep gamers happy though, so if you're thinking of buying this game go ahead, you wont regret it!

This is not a muay thai flash game! but high quality 3D game. Play muay thai game now!

Buy and Download Now!

Muay Thai Shorts

Duo Gear Muay Thai Shorts

Product Description:

These are durable and hard wearing for those intense training sessions or for competing. They are made with a wide elasticated drawstring waistband to ensure they stay up and each leg has wide leg room allowing you to execute those high kicks and knees.

See Product Details

Turner Sport Muay Thai Kickboxing Shorts

Product Description:
These shorts are designed and cut to suit contact sports including kickboxing, Muay thai, general workouts and other sports too. They are made from a polyester mix material and have a elasticated waist with tie string to secure the shorts. The design features ensure that the shorts are not a hinderance when playing contact sports and do not limit kicks and splits. The product is made to the highest specification and is quality tested and guaranteed. This has made it the choice of professionals and that is the reason we are supplying these to world class health clubs, gyms and Boxing clubs.

See Product Details

Muay Thai Training Tips

Muay Thai is a highly physical martial art. It's a simple, yet brutal art as others would say. This combat sport has gained considerable interest among fitness buffs and martial arts enthusiasts all over the world because of the numerous benefits that it offers. So if you're thinking of trying it out, here are some muay thai training tips and things that you should know, especially if you haven't taken up a martial art before.

Professionals
seek the guidance and supervision of professional Muay Thai instructors for all aspects of your training session: warm-up, pad work, heavy bags and cool-downs.

Basics
Start slowly, get a good grasp of the fundamentals and the proper Muay Thai techniques so that you can train intelligently and improve progressively.

Patience
Muay Thai as you may have already realized is intensive and demanding, there will always be something new to learn and mastering this art takes time. Be patient, take it one day at a time and keep moving forward.

Enthusiasm
Another way to say this is lighten up and enjoy it. The process of moving from a newbie to a master is a roller coaster, you will laugh, you might cry. Keep an open mind, give it your best and enjoy the results.

Discipline
As obvious as this may sound, a level of discipline is necessary. Results will come through consistency, consistency comes from perseverance and determination, both are a product of your focus. Focus on your goals, start today and do not stop until you have achieved your objective.

Relax
However, you must allow your body to have at least one day of rest every seven days. If you are brand new to the sport, a recommended initial one day interval between sessions is adequate, as you improve, you will be able to train up to 3-6 days consecutively.

Don't push yourself too hard.
Go easy to start. It is very important to learn the proper mechanics first than pushing yourself to train hard right away. Learning the proper mechanics would give you a solid foundation and it also reduces the risk of injury.

Muay Thai Moves List

Muay Thai Moves

Muay Thai points of contact:

• Punching (Chok)
• Knee (Tae kao)
• Kicking (Tae)
• Elbow (Tee sok)

This is a significant difference from western style boxing that focuses on two points of contact (each fist) and other traditional martial arts that utilize four (fists and feet). Most fighters will focus on the Muay Thai techniques that involve the elbows and knees when competing against an opponent of another style in order to gain an advantage. Additionally, there is an emphasis on strong core movements starting with the hips that generate tremendous power.

Punching (Chok)

Traditional Muay Thai techniques focused on two primary strikes- crosses and long strikes (which were long circular strikes made with the palm of the hand). The melting pot of mixed martial arts has made a significant impact on Muay Thai punching techniques which now employ the full arsenal of traditional western boxing strikes, which includes:

• Jabs (Mud Trong)
• Crosses
• Hooks (Mud Wiang San)
• Uppercuts (Mud Seuy)
• Hammer Fists
• Overhands

In order to avoid exposing the head for counter attacks, practitioners often avoid strikes to the body.

Another big difference in striking style is the stance that is used. Unlike the traditional boxing style that keeps the hands close to the head covering the face, an alternative Muay Thai technique is to keep the arms raised an in front of the fighter. This is often utilized to create and maintain distance when one fighter has a height advantage or prefers longer range strikes.


Knee (Tae kao)

The knee is perhaps the most integral part of Muay Thai techniques. The knees and the elbows are the most lethal assets a Muay Thai fighter can employ. Proper knees are thrown so that contact is made on the front portion of the leg either just below, directly on, or just above the knee cap. The foot should remain pointed during a knee in case a kick needs to be thrown. There are several different knee strikes, which include:

• Straight Knee Strike (Kao Trong)
• Diagonal Knee Strike (Kao Chiang)
• Curving Knee Strike (Kao Kong)
• Horizontal Knee Strike (Kao Tud)
• Knee Slap (Kao Tob)
• Knee Bomb (Kao Youwn)
• Jumping Knee (Kao Loi)
• Step-Up Knee Strike (Kao Yiep)

Kicking (Tae)

When it comes to kicking the two most common Muay Thai techniques are the teep kick (foot jab) and teh chiang (angle kick).

The teep kick is akin to the jab. Offensively, it is used to gain distance, distract, and to set up for other attacks. Defensively, it can be used to prevent attacks and to maintain distance.

The teh chiang is a powerful kick that starts with the rotation of the hips to maximize the momentum and speed of the kick for maximum impact.

Additionally, there are several other Muay Thai techniques for kicking, which include:

• Straight Kick (Tae Trong)
• Roundhouse Kick (Tae Tud)
• Diagonal Kick (Tae Chiang)
• Spinning Heel Kick (Tae Glub Lang)
• Axe Heel Kick (Tae Khao)
• Jump Kick (Gra-dode Tae)

Elbow (Tee sok)

The elbow is an integral part of Muay Thai and can be used in several ways by a fighter. Here are some of the primary elbow strikes (these will be discussed in greater detail in future posts):

• Elbow Slash (Sok Tee)
• Horizontal Elbow (Sok Tud)
• Uppercut Elbow (Sok Ngud)
• Forward elbow thrust (Sok Poong)
• Reverse Horizontal Elbow (Sok WIang Glub)
• Spinning Elbow (Sok Glub)
• Elbow Chop (Sok Sub)
• Double Elbow Chop Mid-Air Elbow Strike (Sok Glub Koo)

As a general rule, diagonal elbows tend to be the fastest elbow strikes, but are less powerful. When used correctly, they can be incredibly effective at cutting an opponent's face. Uppercut elbows and elbow chops tend to be the most powerful and inflict the most damage; however they are also easier to guard against and avoid.

These points of contact form the foundation of a Muay Thai fighter and help make them a dynamic and dangerous opponent in any hand to hand combat situation. The mastery of these techniques is only the first step in becoming a great fighter. Once proficient at these foundation techniques, a fighter can move into the fifteen mae mai (major or mother techniques) followed by the luk mai (minor or more advanced techniques).

Muay Thai Kickboxing Videos

Buakaw Por. Pramuk vs. Dzhabar Askerov

Muay Thai Boxing is a much favored sport in the whole of Thailand, and a well loved entertainment in most parts of the world. It is in fact more popular than any other sport in Thailand. Muay Thai Boxing is a very rigorous art that requires a lot more energy, concentration, and intelligence as compared to western style boxing. This much revered sport is embedded in the history of Thailand, and dates back over hundreds of years.

Muay Thai Training Online

Muay Thai Training

Learn Muay Thai Kickboxing At Home

Do you want to learn Muay Thai kickboxing online? There are lot's of different ways to train yourself in the art of Thai Kickboxing. This could be from all over body conditioning, flexibility and technique based move training. Even if you can't afford to join an MMA gym there are still plenty of ways to practice in your own home.

What Exactly Is Muay Thai Kickboxing?

Unlike traditional kickboxing, which is a hybrid of Karate and Western Boxing, Muay Thai makes more use of shin strikes, elbow strikes and clinch work. It is also the national sport of Thailand. The sport is currently a very popular edition to MMA and can be seen in the UFC being used by fighters such as; Anderson Silva, Wanderlei Silva and Mauricio Rua.

How To Start Muay Thai Training

Thai kickboxing requires a great deal of fitness. If you want to start training then I would recommend building up your overall fitness levels by doing cardiovascular activities such as running, swimming and skipping. It's common practice for Thai fighters to do a 10km run every morning for the months leading up to a fight.

I would recommend that you learn these three basic strikes to begin with. It's important to master each move individually. We all want to learn the flashy kicks that we see in the movies, but without the basics you will never be able to get there.

Roundhouse Kick
Probably the most famous kick of all time, and certainly one of the most effective. Most of the power from a roundhouse kick comes from the waist with the point of impact being the shin.

Straight Kick
The straight kick is a very useful defensive move that is used to push back your opponent and give you more space. It can also be a very powerful attack if performed correctly. The point of impact is either the ball of your foot or the heel.

Jab and Cross - The first punches you should ever learn.
The jab is simply a straight punch with whatever arm you have in front of you, whilst the cross is a straight punch with whatever arm you have at the back. The point of impact should be your two front knuckles and you should only tense your fist just before you strike.

Leaning these basic moves is a good way to begin your training. I would definitely recommend that you don't move onto anything else until you have mastered these basic steps.

Where Can I Learn Muay Thai Kickboxing

There are loads of great resources online if you want to learn any martial arts. If it is MMA forms or Thai Kickboxing then I would recommend that you find a program that has been designed by professional fighters. There are a program online called Damage Control. This program will take you through the entire process of learning mixed martial arts.

Learning Muay Thai online can be very effective. Damage Control is a professional training guide used by a number of world class MMA fighters.

Want to learn Muay Thai with professional MMA fighters? Visit: Muay Thai Training

Muay Thai Video Clips

Sanchai vs. Fabio Pinca

For much of its history Muay Thai was a dangerous sport. It was raw hand to hand combat - with ropes and cords wrapped around the hands instead of gloves. As Thailand has entered the modern age, the rules have changed slightly to protect the fighters, who now wear padded gloves and protection for their groins. While boxers can still use their elbows and feet during the match most of the other rules have been modified to comply with international boxing regulations. This has allowed the popularity of Muay Thai to spread throughout the world and today you can find Thai Boxing training centers in most of the western world including the United States and Russia.

Download Muay Thai Training

Muay Thai Kickboxing: The Ultimate Guide To Conditioning, Training, And Fighting

Book descriptions:
In the most comprehensive guide available for entry into the fast-growing sport of Muay Thai kickboxing, personal trainer, Thai boxing coach and experienced fighter Chad Boykin leads you through every aspect of the game. Whether you long to test your mettle in the ring or simply get in the best shape of your life, this book will show you how. With clear, instructive photos and descriptions, Boykin demonstrates the conditioning exercises that provide the foundation for the power and speed of Muay Thai. Then he takes you step by step through the brutal elbow and knee strikes, punches, clenches and kicks that form your offensive arsenal, plus the blocks and evasion techniques that will confound your opponent. Training drills teach you to flow from one move to the next with accuracy and confidence. A veteran of the ring, Boykin gives novice fighters inside information on what to expect and offers advice on fighting styles and strategies. Whether you've been participating in kickboxing for years or are new to the sport, this book will give you the edge you need to succeed.

Muay Thai Training Book

Customer reviews:

I think this is currently the best book on Muay Thai you can buy.
It has lots of information on techniques & what it takes to prepare yourself for a Muay Thai Tournament.
Buy it ignore any bad press given to this book.

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Muay Thai Movie Reviews

Ong Bak - The Thai Warrior

Amazon.co.uk Review:

No computer graphic can ever surpass what a real human body can do--and what the body can do is on spectacular display in Ong-Bak, a Thai action movie starring the lithe and flexible Tony Jaa. When the head is stolen from a holy statue in Jaa's rural village, he goes to Bangkok to get it back. Of course, it just so happens that the thief is connected to a bar where criminal big shots gamble over bare-knuckle brawls, and Jaa is--despite his virtuous efforts--drawn into the game. But that's only the beginning; a chase through the city streets rivals the ingenious acrobatics of Jackie Chan, with Jaa leaping between panes of glass, over a bicycle in motion, and through a wreath of barbed wire. Jaa's fighting prowess has been compared to Bruce Lee, Jet Li, and just about every other martial arts master, but he has an equal degree of charisma as well. He won't win acting awards, but his engaging presence carries the movie. One word of warning: The numerous fights will make you wince as much as gape in astonishment. Ong-Bak follows the action-flick tradition that the hero needs to be as battered as possible before he ultimately triumphs, and the battering is intense. -Bret Fetzer, Amazon.com - Product deatails

The Protector movie, also known as King Warrior

Customer review:

Tony jaa, is great again-fantastic stunts,a radical fusion of brutal and stylish muay thai moves, stunning visuals, and emotive drama, The Protector is the ultimate tribute to the unique vision of director prachya pinkaew and the prective, charismatic talents of leading martial artist in thai boxing TONY JAA. Product details

Muay Thai Pads

Muay Thai Shin Pad
Shin instep pad leg & foot protector PVC Martial Arts Kick Boxing training Protective gear with removable shoes Black Large

This shin and instep is made from High Quality pure synthetic leather material and is padded with EVA foam which has light weight properties and a great impact absorption qualities. The Pads are contoured so that they hug the shin and provide a snug fitting to the shin which minimises movement during contact. The elasticised straps fit comfortably around the leg.

The removable foot pad is generously padded to cover the whole foot. It has an adjustable strap at the back which is cushioned to give extra comfort. Its special design keeps the toes inside the instep ensuring full protection during use.

We are confident that you will be pleased with these pads and if they do not meet your expectations then we are happy to exchange or refund.

The product is made to the highest specification and is quality tested and guaranteed. This has made it the choice of professionals and that is the reason we are supplying these to world class health clubs, gyms and Boxing clubs.

Product Details

Kickboxing Training Books

Muay Thai Kickboxing Training Books

Product Description
This book, written by an acknowledged expert on this fascinating fighting art, provides a detailed analysis of the techniques of Muay Thai [Thai Kick Boxing] and their application to street protection. Ultimate Muay Thai is aimed at those with an interest in the martial arts in general and those with a specific interest in Muay Thai whether they are beginners, intermediates or advance practitioners.

About the Author
Bob Spour has thirty-five years experience of the martial arts and has spent twenty-five years studying Muay Thai both in Thailand and UK. He is also Chief Instructor to over forty-five camps worldwide, collectively known as the Phraya Pichai Camps International. In 1996 he qualified as a Judge and a Referee for Muay Thai.

Product Details: Ultimate Muay Thai: the Science of Eight Limbs

Muay Thai Training Video Clips

Muay Thai Training Video Clips

There are loads of great resources online if you want to learn any martial arts. If it is MMA forms or Thai Kickboxing then I would recommend that you find a program that has been designed by professional fighters. There are a program online called Damage Control. This program will take you through the entire process of learning mixed martial arts.

Learning Muay Thai online can be very effective. Damage Control is a professional training guide used by a number of world class MMA fighters.

Want to learn Muay Thai with professional MMA fighters? Visit: Muay Thai Training

Muay Thai Equipment

Muay Thai Equipment

Muay Thai Gear
Image source: www.kickboxingclasses2k.com

Muay Thai equipment is all over the net. If you need it, everything is just a click away. Upon searching for the best Muay Thai Equipment on sale online, I spotted one store that caught my attention.

The store`s name is Muay Thai fighting. They claim that they are the pioneer when it comes to offering Muay Thai Equipments. They have a wide variety of equipment that ranges from cheap to affordable. Everything is in one roof of Muay Thai fighting. Their aim is to provide online customers a pleasurable buying experience and get the exact value of their money. Not only that! Their website is very user friendly. You can easily search the actual item you are looking for because they categorized each item to the specific use of the equipment.

Here is the list of some brands and items available in the website:

Hand and wrist protection available brands

Boxing Gloves

• Twins special Muay Thai Boxing Gloves
• Fairtex Super Sparring Gloves Locked
• Fairtex Muay Thai Boxing gloves
• Boon Muay Thai Boxing glove Velcro
• Windy Amateur Boxing gloves
• Twins special Muay thai boxing gloves with elastic wrist
• Twins special Boxing Gloves Amateur international boxing

Abdominal Protection available brands

• Fairtex Foul Proof protection.
• Top King Abdominal Protection
• ThaiSmai Groin protector for international boxing.

Belly Protection available brands

• Twins special Belly Protector
• Boon Muay Thai Belly protector
• Fairtex Leather belly protector
• Top King belly protector
• Raja Belly protector

Body Protection available brands

• Twins
• Fairtex
• ThaiSmai
• Top king

Fancy Shin Protection available brands:

• Twins
• Top King
• Fairtex
• Raja

I can enumerate them all but at least sighting a few would give you an idea of how many brands do they offer. They also carry items for the groin protection, headgear, heavy bag, kicking pads, Punching mitts, Apparel, accessories, books and videos that will give you a head start in learning Muay Thai.

Muay Thai equipment may be a big investment as you have to complete the whole gear outfit. But if you are really serious in this sport, you know that having all these would be beneficial for you in terms of support and protection. There are other sites that offer Muay Thai Equipment but since it is hard to order something that you don`t see in actual, better get the items from a trusted and pioneer store for Muay Thai Equipments.

Muay Thai Conditioning

Muay Thai Kickboxing Training

Muay Thai, the national sport of Thailand, is known in the Western fighting world as one of the "sprawl-and-brawl" disciplines of martial arts, focusing on striking the opponent more than grappling, clinching, or submission holds. Drenched in a long history as a royal art form of many traditions, this martial art also greatly accentuates the goals of conditioning and fitness in a fighter. Using Muay Thai techniques can greatly improve stamina for MMA fighters that practice in any area of martial arts.

Physical Conditioning:
Conditioning of the fists, elbows, shins and knees through repetitive punching drills, toughen the skin, tendons, muscles and connective tissue to turn everyday body parts into unmerciful weapons of mass havoc.

Conditioning with MMA gloves, mitts, Thai pads and various striking targets are staples to any MMA or Muay Thai training format. Putting in the work with these sparring devices helps refine speed, power, timing, and most of all -the physical conditioning necessary for actual combat.

Mental Training:
Muay Thai fighters believe that mental toughness is just as important in the ring as physical condition or skills. Meditation and praying are staples of Buddhism and Thai culture, so it should come as no surprise that this transfers over to Muay Thai boxing. This mental training concerns both visualization and positive thinking. While not physically training, a Muay Thai boxer is constantly visualizing their fighting moves in their head like a movie. This will help with reflexes and natural reactions because you’re practicing scenarios in your head all day and night. Positive thinking involves eating, breathing, and sleeping success and winning 24 hours a day. Negative thoughts must be neutralized by positive ones and a champion’s mindset put in place.

Fists:
Hand strikes (punches) are the foremost weapon in most all fighting sports. In order to systematically grow your hand striking ability and endurance, train with a heavy bag. Strike freely at first to warm up, increasing the intensity as you build striking technique and conditioning. Increase the intensity as the bones, muscles and tendons of the hand, forearm and shoulder girdle develop to handle the impact of striking a human opponent.

Elbows:
Elbow conditioning can be built up using the same procedures as fist striking conditioning. Be sure to review fight videos and take part in real time sparring to develop your elbow striking. Elbows can be deadly tools in MMA and Muay Thai warfare. Conditioning them to withstand the requirements of repetitive striking will enable you to make use of them at will and without hesitation.

Shins:
Shin conditioning is also a very important ingredient to Muay Thai training. Shins are used to kick and to block kicks. Without calcified shins, you are more likely to be wounded and less likely to be proficient as an MMA striker.

A simple conditioning drill to prepare the shins for battle requires the fighter to strike a Muay Thai bag one-hundred strikes daily. Begin with light and easy strikes and move on full contact strikes as you improve your shin tolerance and aerobic endurance.

Cardiovascular Conditioning:
Oxygenating your body's tissues is critical to maintaining optimum training and competitive performance. Typically, 'old school' training templates are used to develop and improve fighter's cardiovascular conditioning. The most common old school method utilized to condition fight athletes is long term, steady state 'cardio.' This methodology usually dictates long runs or jogging to achieve cardiovascular fight conditioning.

Current research reveal that long term, steady state cardiovascular s will typically reduce the dynamic explosiveness of the sportsman and condition the athlete to subconsciously conserve energy and explosive power in order to complete the task at hand. We now have much more effective cardiovascular fight conditioning methods at our disposal.

Always consult with a fitness professional when constructing your MMA or Muay Thai conditioning program.

Muay Thai Techniques

Muay Thai Techniques
Image source: yupedia.com

The Martial art of Muay Thai has its own unique techniques. It consists of the use of nine weapons. The head, fists, elbow, knee and feet are collectively known as Na-wa arwud. But today the use of head is no longer allowed in the Muay Thai fights. In Muay Thai small amount of grappling is used (The Clinch) for both defending and attacking purpose. Muay Thai techniques are divided into two groups: Mae Mai or Major techniques and Luk mai or Minor techniques. All techniques in Muay Thai use the entire body movement, rotating the hip partially or fully with every punch, kick and block. This is the reason which sets Muay Thai apart from other forms of martial art.

Punching Techniques: ( Chok)

Straight punch = Mud Dhrong

Hook = Mud Wjang San

Swing = Mud Wjang Yao

Spinning Back fist = Mud Wjang Glab

Upper Cut = Mud Seub

Cobra Punch = Kra-Dod Chok

Over Head Punch = Mud Khouk

The judges in Muay Thai fights scores less to the fighters for the punching techniques as they are generally less effective and powerful than kicks or knee strikes. Body punching is also used less in Muay Thai as it exposes the fighters head to the strikes of knee or elbow from the opponent.

Elbow Techniques: (Dhee Sork)

Elbow Slash = Sork Dhee

Horizontal Elbow = Sork Dhad

Upper Cut Elbow = Sork Ngad

Forward elbow Thrust = Sork Poonk

Reverse Horizontal elbow = Sork wjang Glab

Spinning Elbow = Sork Glab

Elbow Chop = Sork Sap

Double Elbow Chop = Sork Glab Koo

Mid Air Elbow Strike = Gra-Dode Sork

The elbow is used in seven ways in Muay Thai, horizontally, diagonal upwards, diagonal downwards, uppercut, downward, backward spinning and flying. The elbow is also used from the sides as a finishing move or to cut the opponents' eyebrow so that he bleeds. Bleeding blocks the vision and also affects the fighter's performance.

Kicking Techniques: (Dhe)

Straight Kick = Dhe Dhrong

Nutcracker Kick = Dhe Paa Maak

Round house Kick = Dhe Dhad

Diagonal Kick = Dhe Chivang

Half-spin, half knee kick = Dhe Krueng Kheng Krueng Kao

Spinning hill Kick = Dhe Glab Lang

Down Round house kick = Dhe Kod

Axe Hill Kick = Dhe Khouk

Jump kick = Gra-Dode Dhe

Step Up Kick = Yiep Dhe

The most common kick in Muay Thai are Foot Jab (Theep) and the Kick (Tae), upward in the shape of a triangle targeting the ribs and arms (Chieng). This angle kick in Muay Thai has been adopted by many other forms of martial arts as it is very effective. The round house kick is almost similar to the kicks used in karate or taekwondo. Many Muay Thai fighters also uses a counter rotation of his arms to enhance the power of his kick. A Muay Thai fighter is always taught to hit with his shin. Although the shin is very sensitive for an untrained person the shin is the strongest part of the leg than the foot as it contains fine bones and is much weaker.

Knee Techniques: (Dhe kao)

Straight Knee Strike = Kao Dhrong

Diagonal Knee Strike = Kao Chijang

Curving Knee Strike = Kao Kouwng

Horizontal Knee Strike = Kao Dhad

Knee Slap = Kao Dhob

Knee Bomb = Kao Youwn

Flying Knee Strike = Kao Loi

Step up Knee Strike = Kao Yiep

Other Knee Techniques: - Kao Dode: (Jumping Knee Strike) Jump on one leg and strike with that legs knee. - Kao Loi: (Flying Knee Strike) Take step(s), jump forward and off one leg and strike with that legs knee. - Kao Tone: (Straight Knee Strike) Thrusts it forward. Not upward unless the fighter is holding opponents head down in a clinch and intend to knee upward into the face. - Kao Noi: (Small knee Strike) Hitting the inside upper thigh (above the knee)of the opponent while clinching.

Foot Thrust Techniques: (Theep)

Straight Foot Thrust = Teep Dhrong

Sideways Foot Thrust = Teep Kang

Reverse Foot Thrust = Teep Glab Lang

Slapping Foot Thrust = Teep Dhob

Jumping Foot Thrust = Gra-Dode Teep

It is also known as 'Push Kicks' and is commonly used in Muay Thai. It is mainly used to attack opponents' attack, and get the opponent off balance.

Fighters in The Arm Clinch Position:

There is a difference in Muay Thai from the western Boxing. During the arm clinch position the fighters are separate in western boxing; however they are not in Muay Thai. There are several clinching techniques in Muay Thai including:

- Arm Clinch

- Side Clinch

- Low Clinch and

- Swan Neck.

Defensive techniques against attack:

It as categorized into six groups:

1. Blocking: Defenders hard block to stop a strike in its path, so preventing it reaching its target.

2. Redirection: Defenders soft parries to change the directions of a strike so that it misses its target.

3. Avoidance: Moving a body part swiftly out of the way or range of a strike, making the position of the opponent for a counter strike.

4. Evasion: Moving the body out of the way or range of a strike.

5. Disruption: Pre-aiming an attack.

6. Anticipation: Defender catching a strike or countering it before it strike.

For more information about Muay Thai, please visit www.muaythaisecretformula1.com

Muay Thai Boxing Pre Fight Ritual

Wai Kru

Wai Kru is a demonstration of the pupilґs respect and gratitude to his teacher in submission to the teaching training. Wai Kru is traditionally practiced by Thais of various professions and arts, e.g., dancers, sword fighters, musicians, as well as academic students, and of course Muay Thai boxers are no exception. "Wai" means to pay respect by putting both hands together in front of the chest. The demonstration of Wai Kru does not only imply paying respect to the present teacher, but also includes homage to all the teachers of the discipline.

Wai Kru ceremonies are preferable held on Thursday, which is believed to be the teachersґs day. On that day, pupils present certain offerings, usually flowers, money, cloth, etc., to the person who has accepted them as his students. The pupils make a vow that they will study seriously and patiently, respect him and behave fairly to their fellow students and will use the knowledge gained properly.

Wai Kru is called Kheun Kru (the initial ceremony of paying respect to the teacher). Subsequently. they will pay respect to their teachers ceremonially each year, which is called "Yohk Kru" But whenever the pupils intend to use the knowledge taught to them. they will always start by paying respect to their teacher; this action is called Wai Kru or Bucha Kru (to pay respect to a teacher).

In Muay Thai, the boxer will always preface the fight with Wai Kru and this tradition is still practiced nowadays. This ceremony is usually performed to rousing Thai music from pipes and drums, and with the initial Ram Muau (the boxing movement). The Wai Kru and Ram Muay are useful, since the boxer gains encouragement from paying homage to his teachers and feels that he is not on his own: he has his teacher and the other teachers of the discipline to support him. The Wai Kru process will also give him time to concentrate and revise what he has learned, as well as display the nature of his weapons and the high degree of his skill. The steps, movement and use of his weapons are designed to warm up the bodyґs muscles, survey the field of play, and conceal the contestantґs style of fighting

Hong Hern

After being in sitting manner until standing up in Dhepnimitra manner and then turn to the right.

Step 1: raise the right foot and straight it backward. Standing on your left foot. Bend your body to the front. Start to perform the dance by sprawling your arms, kneel down while turning the face side of your palms down.

Step 2: kneel up and bend up the wrist to raise up the fingers.

Step 3: lay your right foot on the floor then straight your left foot backward, continue to perform the dance alike the flying bird. The movement of body, arm and palm must correspond with the music.

Step 4: lay down your left foot then "Yang Sam Khum" (walk powerfully in three step) to change the direction. By turning you around to the "left direction" then step out your left foot, bend your body down to " wai " the "Pra-Bhrama-tis" (the direction of Bhrama ) at the left side just one time. Repeat to perform the " Hong-Hern" dancing styles by starting the first step to the third step again but in the fourth step you must turn to the backside "Wai Bhrama" and then repeat to perform the dance. The last time turn to the front side. (which is the original direction while you sit in the "Dhep Pha-nom" form) And then "Wai-Bhrama" perform the dance called "Hong-Hern" and "Bhrama Si Na" then you play "Yang Sam Khum" and bend your body down to salute your counterpart. It is the finish of the "Wai Kru" and the dance called "Hong-Hern"

Yoong Fon Hang

To perform "Yoong-Fon-Hang" style, you must start from "Wai Kru" from the sit form called "Dhep Panom" to the stand form called "Dhep Nimitra" respectively.

Step 1: turn your body to right side, Wai Pra Bhrama for one time.

Step 2: step out your left foot forward. Raise up your right foot then straighten it backward bend down your body forward simultaneously. Put the hands together in salute at the chest level.

Step 3: turn the face side of your palm upward and slowly move your arms go through the armpits to the backside of your body until your arms are straight. All of tip fingers are closed together.

Step 4: move your hands out to the side of the body alike straighten your arms. Then move it round to come gathering at your face. Lift your chest and your face up while your hands were put to touch your head, while your right legs still stretch backward.

Step 5: hold down your right foot to stand straightly. Raise up your left foot then straighten it backward. Stand on your right foot and then repeat the step 1- 4 (it's just switch the right side to be the left side). Repeat to perform the dance for all 4 directions. Then get back to the corner with "Kow Yang" and bend down your body to salute your counterpart.

Traditional and Rituals of Muay Thai

Beginner Initiation Ritual

Thai boxers are prone to believe in magic spells, and the occult in the believe that such ploys could stop the opponent who would be too puzzled to fight. Fighters are known to have gone as far as to recite spells in graveyards particularly those reputed to be haunted, so as to facilitate meditation, strength, courage and increase readiness to face a man.
In general, students of Thai boxing are usually initiated into a camp via an initiation ceremony. The chosen day is usually Thursday, (Thursday is considered the day of the god of arts and skills). The student would bring flowers, incense sticks, candles, towels and a water container to the teachers house. He would also bring with him 6 twenty-five Satang coins and 6 pieces of white cotton cloth. Depending on the amount of students who are to be initiated, a small feast is prepared, with pork, duck, and chicken with other foods and fruits.
The teacher would pick up either a glove or the sacred cotton laurel and raise it above his head, then the students to be initiated would bow to the teacher three times and put out his arm to be held by the teacher while holding the glove or laurel. Both the teacher and the student should be holding the article while the teacher begins to incite the blessing of knowledge;
"Buddhang Prasit Dhammang Prasit Sangkang Prasit, Narayana is Chao Prasit Pawantute" (Meaning the one who confers knowledge).
When the teacher releases the hands of the student, then holds the article above his head to pay respect to Rama, where he bows three times, he then faces the teacher and bows three more times towards him. The teacher then makes the following blessing;
"Siddhi Kijang, Siddhi Kammang, Siddhi Techo, Chaiyo Nijang, Chaiya Siddhi Pawantute"
If there is pork or duck etc., then the teacher will take a knife and slice a piece offering this to the student, while reciting "This object is given by Narayana to all his pupils so that they could be powerful and enjoy lasting happiness". The student makes another sign of respect and eats the piece of meat. There is always a large container of holy water and a statute of Buddha, which is placed in the middle to bear witness to the ceremony. Holy water is sprinkled on the student and the teacher would offer the student the wearing of the holy cotton laurel, which is governed with the following spell;
Om Sri Siddhi Deja Chana Satru Na, Ma, Pa, Ta You see me. Your mind should be gloomy, worried, without sense Namo Buddhaya makes you captivated, believing that I am Ong Promma Chaiya Siddhi Pawantume".
One of the spells used by King Naresuan during his march against the Burmese, is often used in this ceremony; "Pra Chao 5 Pra Ong" (Five Gods) Namo Buddhaya;
Na Yan Bot Songkram ( Na the region of the war), Ma Tid tam Satru (Ma follow the enemy) Bud Tor Su Pai Rin, (Bud fight the foes) Cha Sin Pol Krai (Dha conquer all forces) Ya Chok Chai Chana (Ya glorious victory).
When fighting at close quarters King Naresuan used the following spell in engaging the enemy in battle.
Na Dej Rukran (Na, might invades), Ma Tao Harn Fan Fad (Ma, courage in striking), Pa Pikat Home Huek (Pa, destroy without fear), Ta Prab Suek Toi Tod (Ta, repel the enemy)."

Pre-fight Ritual

When fighters enter the ring, they traditionally are seen wearing a Mongkon on their heads, and Pong Malai around their necks.

The Mongkon (or Mangala) is the traditional head band which is always worn by Muay Thai fighters . It is usually made from a special cotton yarn, which has been carefully bound together in a special way. This item is used to represent the gym that you are fighting out of. It is essentially a crown. Fighters never own the Mongkon themselves, it is gym property. Also, fighters are not to touch the Mongkon. It is placed on their heads and removed by their Kru or trainer. It serves to remind the fighter that he is in the ring representing his gym or camp, not himself. In the past, each gym had a distinct Mongkon, and one could identify what gym a fighter was from by the Mongkon worn.
Pong Malai are the floral wreaths worn around a fighter’s neck when he enters the ring. Pong Malai literally translates to "Group of Flowers". It is almost identical in purpose to a Hawaiian Lei. Pong Malai are given to a fighter by friends and fans as a good luck gesture. Pong Malai are also commonplace in Thai culture outside of the boxing ring. Again, much like a Hawaiian Lei.
When the fighter steps into the ring, they always go over the top rope. They NEVER duck under or between the ropes to enter or exit the ring. This is a symbolic gesture that is closely related to Thai culture. In Thai culture, a person’s head is considered to be the most important part of the body, practically a holy object. The feet, by contrast, are considered lowly and dirty. A fighter should ALWAYS enter the ring over the top rope so as not to allow his head to go beneath anything.
When the fighter is in the ring, he goes to the center to bow to each of the four sides of the ring, paying his respects to the audience who has paid to see him fight.
The fighter then returns to his corner and if he is wearing a robe, his trainer removes it for him to begin the real pre-fight ceremony.
Beginning in his own corner, the fighter places his right hand atop the uppermost ring rope and walks counter-clockwise around the ring, symbolically "Sealing the Ring". The act of sealing the ring represents a statement to your opponent: "It's just you and me now." This act represents you sealing out the crowd, your trainers, the judges, and everyone from this match. It's just you and me buddy! Mano a mano.
Upon completion of sealing the ring, the fighter then positions himself in the center of the ring and kneels facing the direction of his home town, or his gym/camp. He performs three bows, touching his forehead to the floor. This is called the Wai Kru (bow to the teacher Wai means bow, Kru means teacher.). These three bows can take on a different significance with each fighter, but in our gym, we think of them as paying respect to your teacher and gym, your family, and finally to your deity.
The fighter then begins an elaborate dance-like ritual called the Ram Muay. The fighter goes through many complex motions, which often imitate animals or professions. In the SuriyaSak Ram Muay, we go through motions imitating a swallow, a hunter, a soldier, and an executioner.
The Ram Muay originated back in the days before there were rings. Initially, these motions were just the fighter warming up, stretching, and testing the ground of the predetermined fighting area. Over time, these transformed into the elaborate rituals that they are today.
The Ram Muay still serves a practical purpose in fight preparation besides the cultural "ritual". The motions are designed so that they stretch out the major muscle groups of the body. The Ram Muay is also used as a fighters "personal time", allowing him a minute or two right before the match to collect his thoughts and focus on the match.
Once the Ram Muay is completed, the fighter/s bow towards their opponent’s corner to pay respect to their opponent and his gym, and they return to their own corners for final blessings by their coach/Kru/trainer. The Kru then removes the Mongkon from the fighter’s head and the Pong Malai from around his neck and hangs them on the ring post.

Paprachiat

Fighters also commonly wear a cord around their bicep called the Kruang Ruang (armband) or Paprachiat (Good Luck Charm). These are usually given to the fighter as good luck charms by close family or by monks as talismans to ward off harm. These armbands are worn throughout the entire fight.
The practice of wearing Mongkons and Kruang Ruang/Paprachiats is believed to have originated during Thai medieval ages when the Thai's often found themselves at war. Soldiers commonly wore headbands and armbands made from material that had special meaning to them, such as the hem of a parents Pakima (a skirt-like outfit worn by both men and women) or even strands of a loved ones hair wrapped in cloth. Sometimes little religious artifacts were wrapped up and worn, such as little Buddha figurines.
Anyway, the above traditions and rituals are the most common practices associated with Thai boxing. Though all of these traditions and rituals have been influenced by Thai religion (Buddhism, Hinduism, and Islam), they are not religious in nature. These rituals and traditions transcend a Thai's religious beliefs, as they are part of the greater culture that is Thailand.

Muay Thai Traditions and Rituals

Thai Musical Instruments for Boxing

Muay Thai is still developing, but what remains unchanged is the use of the pipe and the drums as musical accompaniments for the matches, and is considered a unique characteristic of Muay Thai.
For dancing one may use a record player, but for thai boxing it is imperative to have live music. For the prefight rituals and during the fight itself the tempo of music is increased to encourage the fighters to put forth their best efforts. There are three Thai musical instruments for boxing.

Traditional Thai instruments used during and before the fights are the Pi, the Ching and the Glawng Khaek.

The Pi Chawa or Java Pipe, it is believed, owes its origin to India where the Javanese secured their model. It appears that the instrument was used in both Royal and Army processions and in accompanying the traditional Thai fencing bouts. The stirring sound which it makes is somewhat like the Chanta on Scotch Bag Pipes. The Pi Chawa is made in two sections; a cylindrical body 10 3/4 " in length and a bell or horn in 5 1/2 "long.It is made of hardwood or ivory or both. Along the body are seven finger holes. Four pieces of reed in double pairs are tied to a small metal tube. The end of the tube is inserted into the body of the instrument and wrapped with thread to make the connection sung. At rhis end of the tube there is also a small round convex piece of metal or coconut shell to support the performer’s lips.

The Ching

The Ching which is a percussion instrument of the cymbal type comes in pairs and is made of a thick metal shaped like a tea-cup or hollow cone. The Ching is played by hitting the two pieces together. Each one measures about 6-7 cm, 2 1/2"-2 3/4 : in diameter.
At the apex of each there is a small hole through which a cord is passed. A knot at each end of the cord fits inside the apex of the cymbal and prevents the cord from slipping through. The cord fastens the two cymbals together and holds them in playing positions. The function of the Ching is to keep time and to beat out the rhythm.
The name Ching is onomatopoetic, coming from the sound made when the two edges of the cymbal are struck together and the sound is allowed to persist. It is a melodious and chiming sound. When the two cymbals are struck together and then held together, it is produces a dull clapping sound.

The Glawng Khaek

The Glawng Khaek has a long cylindrical body which is made of hardwood and is 58 cm. (23") in length. The heads are of unequal size, the larger being 20 cm. (8") in diameter called Na rui (literally "loose") and the smaller 18 cm. (7") in diameter called Na tan ("outer head"). The two heads are made of calfskin or goatskin. Originally the two heads were tied down with cane or rattan which was split in half and tied apart, but now owing to the difficulty obtaining good rattan and cane, leather tongs are usually used. The drums are used in pairs and are of different pitches. The higher toned drum is referred to as tua pu (male) and the lower toned drum as tua mia (female).
They are played with the palms and the fingers of the hands and both drumheads are used. There is one player for each drum. A complex rhythmic line is created by the inter-mingling and alternating of the sounds of the two drums.