Muay Thai the Unbeatable Martial Art

Muay thai is the form of martial art which began its journey from the Kingdom of Thailand more than 2000 years ago. Now it is popularly known as 'thai boxing' all over the world. Muaythai is the art of fighting without the use of any weapon.

Thai boxing can be differentiated from the general form of boxing, as it includes the use of hands, elbow, feet and the knee. It's not only an art of fighting; it is also a form of science, with discipline, knowledge and respect.

Thai boxing is an art which needs to be practiced with proper training. It not only keeps you body in good form and proper shape; it improves your blood circulation and builds up your nervous system. Regular practice enhances the flexibility of the body, which means better use of the bones, muscles, and the tendons in bending and moving the body.

It is very important to be brave in order to practice the Art of Muaythai. One must accept the danger and pain involved in this form of fighting, bravely without any fear. Practicing Muay thai is not only getting physical training but also includes the learning of moral values and disciplines in life. It teaches to be modest, to be confident, to always speak the truth and avoid committing sins in life.

In this form of martial art it is trained to be aware of the weak and the fatal points of the opponent's body. A fighter can easily defeat the other in less time if he has good knowledge of his weak positions.

One of the unique features in Thai boxing is the music, which is known as the "Sarama". It is played before and during the combat session. This Sarama music or the wind music is played before the fight with a ceremony, which the fighter performs to pay his respect and gratitude towards those who insisted and helped him to become a boxer. He thinks of his teacher who trained him with all his knowledge and efforts and of his parents who gave him life. This music helps the boxer to raise his spirits and confidence and make him ready for the real physical combat. You can find more information about music at Muay Thai Fighting Website.

Muay thai has given born to many great fighters who are now known all over the world. Samart Payakaroon is one of the best among legendry muay thai heroes; he held the title of "Baby Face Tiger". He accomplished both Muay thai and World Super Bantamweight championship in his carrier. One of the most promising muay thai boxer is Buakaw Por Pramuk. He won the title of K-1 Max World Champion two times till now. First in 2004 at the age of 22 and he reclaimed this title again in 2006. The K-1 Grand Prix is a famous competition which is held in Japan to determine the single best standup fighter in the world. In Atlanta Olympics 1996, Somrak Khamsing is the first Thai boxer who won a gold medal in feather weight class. He is well known, from then for his swiftness and his reflexes. Another Muay thai hero in K-1 world competition Kaoklai Kaennorsing once held the title of K-1 grand prix championship in 2004. He is talented at quick maneuver and effective hit. He was called the giant killer after he beat tougher competitor by his technique.

Muay Thai the Unbeatable Martial Art.
by : Jirasak Phuriphanvichai
Good travel that travel thailand !

Read More

Basic Muay Thai Techniques

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.

Good travel that travel thailand !

Read More

Phuket - Natures Own Amphitheater of Entertainment

Breathtaking scenery silhouetted with the most amazing tropical sunset- this is Phuket, home to Asia's most spectacular beaches. Phuket is Thailand's largest island sprawling with travelers round the year to to be a part of the fun-filled sandy beaches of the blue ocean. The most famous beach in Phuket is undeniably the Patong Beach, which is an ideal place to play during the day and exhaust yourself partying hard at night.

Centered around tourism, Phuket has left no stone unturned to amaze you with fun and adventure popping up at even the most unlikely of places. There are loads of other beaches as well which promise entertainment, but often preferred by individuals and families seeking a relaxing and serene environment.

It's not only the beaches which attract travelers, but there are other enticements as well which draw them to the travel paradise. Phuket waterfalls attract a lot of people who seek a cool and soothing place for a great dip and at the same time, want to top it up with a picnic! The waterfalls are mostly located in the surrounding tropical forests and require a bit of trekking which offers the chance to peek at the wildlife. The Khao Phra Thaeo National Park and the Sirinath National Park offer travelers with a heavy dose of adrenaline laced adventure which includes trekking, elephant safari, and canoing or rafting.

There are several viewpoints from where you can get a panoramic view of the tropical sunsets or sunrises, but for people who like to enjoy the beauty of nature in seclusion, it's best to go in the early morning. Phuket has its own share of history and a visit to the beautiful Wat Chalong Buddhist Temple gives you a glimpse of the life of the legendary Buddhist monk, Luang Poh Cham. The island of Phuket is full of adventure and it actually grabs the attention of the traveler who loves to let out that extra bit of sweat to discover the uncharted attractions of a place.

An extra yard from the sandy beaches of Phuket, lies the adventure of scuba diving, letting you discover the underwater life along the beautiful coral reefs. Jet-skiing and para-sailing are equally popular and offer the promise of a pure adrenaline rush. Another attraction of Phuket is the electrifying marvel of Muay Thai, locally known as Muay Thai, held in a specially built stadium on Soi Bangla.

Travelers can witness the pure passion of Thailand's historic sport amidst the cheers of the crowds and the strains of drums and trumpets accompanying the fight right from the beginning to end. For travelers who like to play it cool and clean, can go for the international standard golf courses in Phuket, each one of which offers a spectacular scenery which makes every moment cherished and makes you crave for more!

Anxious about where you can put up! Phuket hotels offers a wide range of accommodation options from budget to luxury stays. Nearly all the hotels in Phuket are in set in admirable locations and offer an easy access and getaway with the availability of taxis and rental cars, or even bikes to explore the island of Phuket.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/


Phuket - Natures Own Amphitheater of Entertainment
By Alexs Albert

Read More

Muay Thai – History And The Basics

Thailand’s national sport, Muay Thai or Thai Boxing is more popularly known as “The Art of the Eight Limbs”; with the ‘eight limbs’ referring to the elbows, hands, knees and shins, all of which are extensively used in this sport. An experienced exponent of Muay Thai would have mastered the art of executing strikes using these “eight limbs” as eight points of contact as opposed to the fist and feet or “four points” that are used in other martial arts forms or the fists; “two points” used in western boxing. Muay Thai is also known as Muay Lao in Laos, Tomoi in Malaysia or Pradal Serey in Cambodia.

History of Muay Thai

The history of Muay Thai is an intrinsic part of the history of Thailand. An inherently peaceful and unwarlike people, for centuries the Thais were forced to defend their land and themselves from hostile and aggressive powers. They adopted and soon perfected a form of hand-to-hand combat, which over time became a rite of passage for the males and all Thai men took up training in this martial art form. It later became a necessary part of military training and went on to become the national sport of the country.

In recent years, this traditionally Thai sport has attracted a huge following world-wide and training facilities have been established in almost all countries of the world.

Muay Thai can be categorized into two major groups; Muay Kiew, which is the more popular form, is full of feints and tricks that are designed to catch the opponent off guard. The second from, Muay lak, emphasizes on patience and caution and is very rarely seen nowadays.

A Muay Thai match has a maximum of 5 rounds with each round lasting 3 minutes. There is a two minute rest period in between each of the 5 rounds. Match rules are rigid and no extra rounds are allowed. Contestants are required to weigh in naked prior to the fight.

Basic Rules on clothing and equipment

In its most traditional form, Muay Thai was very dangerous sport with fighters using no safety gear of any kind except for lengths of cords wrapped around the fists instead of gloves. Safety regulations have been changed over the years and Muay Thai fighters now use gloves that are similar to those worn in Western boxing. Each glove should not weight less than 172 grams or 6 ounces. The gloves should be in good condition and should not be crushed, kneaded or squeezed in order to alter its original shape.

Only red or blue trunks can be worn, with the contestant choosing the color of his corner. The two contestants do not wear either shoes or shirt.

Contestants must wear gum shields for gum protection, ankle cap for ankle protection and sturdy athletic cups or supporters for groin protection.

Mongkol, a sacred cord worn by many Thai men, is permitted to be worn around the head only during the pre-fight ritual where both contestants pay homage to the ancestral teachers and masters of the sport. However this cord will have to be removed prior to the start of the fight.

Metal in any form is prohibited and cannot form any part of the equipment or apparel.

About the Author
Find a wide range of Thai - shorts at Discount Martial arts supplies.co.uk
Published At: www.Isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=219834&ca=Leadership

Submitted By: Gabriel Adams

Read More

Is Muay Thai What You Are Really Looking For?

In summary, there is always only one answer for this question : If you would like to discover whether Muay Thai is suitable for you, just come to visit several Muay Thai gyms and try a first lesson (certainly most of Muay Thai gyms offer free introduction class) and see whether you want to learn it!!!

As I mentioned that everyone can learn Muay Thai. However, I would like to explain more on that as there may be some of you who have different background of martial arts training, from beginner to expert boxer, then I want to contribute some suggestion which based on my personal opinion to several group of Muay Thai learners

I. New to martial arts, no previous experience and looking for something to learn to find out which martial art is the best.

Every martial arts have their own uniqueness and are the best of its kind. Some of you who are in this group may have seen many of tournaments that Muay Thai wins against other kind of martial arts or have seen what Tony Jaa perform in the movie and think that "Yeah Muay Thai is awesome, I need to learn that". I can say that if you want to learn Muay Thai because of this, it's not wrong, but this is only a bit of Muay Thai philosophy that you have seen from those fights or by watch the movie. And when you decide to apply for a camp, start to learn it and be with it for a while, you will see Muay Thai is much much more than in the movie or in the ring fights. The process of training itself, especially, for ones who want to be a professional boxer, is hard and requires a lot of dedication. More than anything, Muay Thai has a lot of history and believes behind the arts, believes and the fighting technique can not be separated.

I am quite disappointed that even in Thailand today, some Thais learn to be a boxer just because they want to earn money, some Muay Thai camps now have become more commercial and the worst thing is most of Thais who love Muay Thai keep watching the fight and turn it in to a betting game!!!.
So if you are about to decide to learn Muay Thai, please make sure that you find out more about it's history, style and believes in order to understand more about it, and then let's go to the answer I mentioned above.

II. Have some background of other kind of martial arts and want to learn Muay Thai to gain more experience and learn variety of martial arts.

If you are the people in this group, I would like to say thank you for interested in Muay Thai. Your background and knowledge of martial arts will benefit to your Muay Thai training and you will find it easier to practice than who have just started. As I suggest above, it is good to learn Muay Thai philosophy and believes along with the art of fight which I think it's necessary for Muay Thai learners at any level. So let's move on and learn Muay Thai to get variety of martial arts and maybe you can mix all of techniques that you learn and apply for your best performance in actual self-defense situation.

III. People who are interested in Muay Thai from the start, dedicate to the training and intend to become a Kru/master or grand master of Muay Thai and teach others.

If you are a person in this group, I have no further suggestion because I can assume that you have made a great commitment to learn Muay Thai and see it really suitable for you. Please receive my great appreciation for interested to become one of the Muay Thai heritage. Just one thing that I beg you please keep doing is to teach others on what you have learnt from Kru, as well as maintain the Muay Thai philosophy along with the art of fight, then people will learn Muay Thai "BY HEART" not only learn for the fight.

Submitted By: Isara Sukgrarongka

Read More

Visiting Bangkok In 10 Easy Steps

One Night in Bangkok…as the famous song goes, but there’s much more to this city, including fantastic culture, great value shopping, exciting entertainment and plenty of sights to point a camera at. With only a few days in the Thai capital, here are ten things you really must see or do.

Shopping

Whether you hot-foot it around Bangkok’s latest glitzy addition to its long list of shopping malls – Siam Paragon, or you spend hours sifting through the bargains at Pratunam Market, shopaholics will not be disappointed with Bangkok’s offerings. Ranking as one of Asia’s top shopping hubs, it is no wonder that shopping is a favourite pastime of the Thais. With all of the main centres within walking distance of one another, you can start at Siam Discover Centre; pass through Siam Square on your way to MBK, then hit your final destination, the World Trade Centre. The biggest problem will not be finding what you want; it will be getting it back home.

Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew

The royal residence known as the Grand Palace sits adjacent to Thailand’s most famous temple complex, Wat Phra Kaew. Home of the Emerald Buddha statue, made of jade contrary to what the name suggests; this is one of the most revered religious sites in Thailand and the location of many prestigious ceremonies. Make sure you wear appropriate clothing if you want to visit these must-see landmarks.

Wat Arun

You can catch a glimpse of this important Buddhist temple on the back of a 10 baht coin if you want a taste of what to expect. Nestled between Chinese-style pavilions on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, the highlight of Wat Arun is its Khmer-style tower. At the base of the tower is a sculpture of the Hindu god Indra and depictions of Chinese soldiers and animals, while the tower itself is intricately decorated with seashells and small pieces of porcelain. Once the home of the Emerald Buddha during the time of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, this temple remains one of the most important religious sites in the country.

Lumpini Park

Sit back and relax in the shade of palm trees or rent a peddle boat and explore the lake and its canals, Lumpini Park is a haven of tranquility, ideal for those in need of a rest from the urban jungle. Interesting features include the Thai Lanna and Chinese pavilions, while there is also a pretty Chinese-style clock tower. In addition to some impressive sculptures, there is a children’s play park and a new pavilion designed as a rest area. And if you miss the buzz of the city, the park is right in the heart.



Chatuchak Market

If you want something specific but you’re not sure where to find it, this is the place. Chatuchak weekend market has vendors selling literally everything, from books to kittens. Busy all year round, expect to be pushed, shoved and pulled at as you wind your way through the narrow alleys. But don’t worry; there are plenty of places to stop for a rest and eat some delicious, inexpensive food. It’s a good idea to decide on a landmark before you begin to explore as the size and crowds here make it easy to loose your hopping companions. A bargain lover’s hunting ground; this is a shopping experience you will not want to miss.

Jim Thompson’s House

Thompson was responsible for rebuilding the Thai silk industry, for which he gained recognition as making an outstanding contribution to Thailand. Before his mysterious disappearance in 1967 on a vacation to the Cameron Highlands in Malaysia, Thompson built this impressive Thai-style teak house, which became the talk of the town. Now a museum, visitors can explore the building and gain insight into this colourful characters life.
Dreamworld

Not all stomach-churning rides, this popular adventure theme park has dozens of attractions including gardens, miniature replicas of seven wonders of the world, live shows and performances, a cable car and even a snow field where you can sling snow balls at your friends. A lively alternative to Bangkok’s traditional sightseeing attractions, the park is easily accessible by train, bus or car.

Khao San Road

If you don’t fancy staying in among hundreds of backpackers, this travellers’ mecca is still worth a look, if just for its cheap pirate CDs. Renowned as a party street, things are unusually quiet until street vendors set up shop in the afternoon. By nightfall, the street is unrecognisable as it fills with throngs of youngsters dining, drinking and watching football. A great place to meet people and make friends, this is also the spot to get cheap travel deals to onward destinations.

Muay Thai Boxing

Only football inspires as much passion as boxing in Thailand, with the latter being considerably more violent. Even if you are a bit reluctant to spend your money on watching men sling punches and lethal kicks, it is surprising how the electric crowd can soon have you up there cheering with the rest of them. Fights are held almost nightly at Lumphini and Ratchadamnoen stadiums, with tickets sol in three tiers, depending on how close you want to be to the action.



By: Andy Burrows

Read More