What is Muay Thai?
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The Art Of 8 Limbs Explained
What is Muay Thai? Muay Thai is a sport and martial art from Thailand that uses punches, kicks, knees, and elbows in combat. It’s known as the Art of 8 Limbs. Muay Thai has been around for a long time and has cultural and religious traditions woven into the sport. In Thailand, everyone, including boys, girls, kings, and queens, would have some form of training.
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Historically Effective
Muay Thai began, in the 16th century, as a military art. The art is also steeped in spiritual traditions, with early fights being held at Thai Buddhist Temples.
The art is known as the Art of 8 Limbs, because it utilizes not just kicking and punching, but also knees and elbows. The most unique aspect of Muay Thai is the clinch, where fighters can work to control their opponent’s neck and deliver knee or elbow strikes. They can also use sweeps, throws, and dumps to drop their opposition to the mat. Another unique aspect of the art is that Muay Thai Fighters are allowed to catch kicks with their hands and counter with strikes.
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Rooted in Tradition, but Always Evolving
Muay Thai is more than just a combat sport. It is a cultural tradition that has been a part of Thailand’s history for centuries. Muay Thai has gained popularity worldwide, and the sport has evolved to meet the demands of changing times. Yet, Muay Thai basics, such as punching, kicking, and clinching, remain an essential part of the sport. As the world continues to change, Muay Thai will undoubtedly change too, but its fundamental values and techniques will remain intact.