About Muay Thai

Muay Thai (Thai boxing) is a popular martial art practiced widely in Thailand and Southeast Asia. The national sport of Thailand, Muay Thai originates from an ancient and more brutal form of fighting known as Muay Boran. Today, the martial art has been adapted for sport, although glimpses of its fiercesome past can be seen even in modern day fights. Muay Thai is also known as "The Art of Eight Limbs", which refers to the unique use of hands, shins, knees, and elbows as attack weapons.

Its popularity today is largely due to its recent attention as one of the most common fighting styles that mixed martial artists use. The techniques of Muay Thai are simple to learn, but can take years to master. The art was developed for the everyman of Thailand, so that even the weakest person could go to battle effectively even without weapons. Even with little training Muay Thai can be extremely effective as a method of self-defense. When executed properly, Muay Thai strikes generate a formidable amount of force and impact regardless of physical strength.

Muay Thai training typically include rigorous cardiovascular exercise, striking pads, and controlled sparring. Practice can be tough, but fitness and confidence in the techniques come quickly and are well worth it. Strikes and movement are all generated from the hips and core, so if you're looking for a core workout look no further. Some of the benefits of practicing the art include:

• Cardiovascular fitness
• Fat loss
• Core strength
• Increased flexibility
• Strengthening and toning of entire body
• Mental focus
• Self-confidence

Make no mistake, Muay Thai is a very physical and powerful combat art. With improper instruction, it's very easy to injure yourself or others. If you're looking to learn it, be sure to learn from a qualified instructor.