Muay Thai: "The Art of Eight Limbs"
January 5, 2024
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From Europe to America to Asia, an increasing number of gyms and dojos around the globe have opened up their doors offering to teach Thailand's beloved national combat sport, Muay Thai.
With the rapid popularity of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) in pop culture, you would probably have to be living under a rock to not have at least heard of Muay Thai. If you happen to be those who are more familiar with the sport, however, you may already know that it is often considered a crucial aspect of MMA.
From what we may have seen on TV, Muay Thai appears to be a dauntingly ruthless sport - but those who have chosen to deepen their knowledge and practice in Muay Thai are more than likely to defend it as being much more than meets the eye.
With precise moves using knees, elbows, shins, and hands to execute bone-crushing strikes, this sport is all about utilizing our body parts as weapons.
While it's safe to say that few would argue it is far from violent, aside from providing an effective arsenal of moves to defend oneself, Muay Thai also delivers various physical and mental benefits that it is no wonder that practitioners of the sport often become die-hard fans.
Muay Thai is truly a unique form of martial arts and sport that is like no other. Reportedly to be originated in the 14th century in Siem, Thailand, Muay Thai is referred to as "The Art of Eight Limbs" as it focuses on eight points of contact, as opposed to "two points" (fists) in boxing and "four points" (hands and feet) used in kickboxing.
Infused with strong ethics and traditions, it enables us to not only build our physical strength but also build our inner strength and character. This is probably the main reason it would not be a rarity to find a strong sense of brotherhood, camaraderie, and respect amongst Muay Thai practitioners.
Image credit: Superpro Samui
Since the sport requires grueling training and intense use of your body, when one decides to take up Muay Thai, it is a given that he/she will inevitably improve their physical health and appearance.
However, unlike hitting the gym and lifting weights that primarily focus on aesthetics, Muay Thai also offers something more substantial - the continuous journey of self-improvement that encompasses body, mind, and soul.
Through Muay Thai training, you’ll develop inner strength, courage, discipline, technique, and athleticism. It focuses on personal development that extends beyond the surface and emphasizes the journey of becoming a better self rather than the final outcome.
If you happen to be in search of a lethal combination of a sport and martial art that can help you to become the best version of who you are both inside and out, be sure to take Muay Thai into consideration. Though it is primarily perceived as a sport for men, it is important to note that the practice of Muay Thai can benefit just about anyone - including women and children.
Like any other form of martial arts, it too can be adapted to each individual's level of fitness and capabilities.
After all, every expert is once a beginner so there is no shame in requesting to modify the training to fit your needs and intensify it as you wish as you go along. Should you decide to explore and take up Muay Thai, we wish you all the best in your training - may you reap all the exciting benefits that it can offer!
Ready to train in Muay Thai? There’s no better way to do so than to sign up for authentic Muay Thai training in Thailand!