Anyone familiar with the people, culture and traditions of Thailand will know that in Thailand only one form of martial arts holds the title of national sport of Thailand and that sport is Thai boxing also known as Thai Boxing. This form of martial arts which is enthusiastically practiced at 200 Thai boxing training camps all across Thailand have first been used by soldiers in defense of their country as early as the 13th century. Muay Thai boxing is also widely known as the art of eight limbs simply because there are eight points of contact all of which is expertly used by Muay Thai fighters when they deliver kicks and punches and also employ the knees and elbows. Nevertheless, this incredibly popular sport is now practiced all across the planet and it is especially popular among fitness and weight loss fanatics. This sport also has unique health benefits because of the full body workout exercise routine which is used at training camps all across the world.
Descending from Muay Boran
Muay Thai boxing uses several elements which comes from a very old form of martial arts known as Muay Boran which is rumored to be at least 2000 years old. It should also be noted that although Muay Thai in one form or another has been around for a very long time it was only finally formalized in the early 20th century. It was actually strongly influenced by boxing in Britain where there is set rules and boxing rings. Before this, boxers wrapped ropes around their hands but these ropes were then replaced with boxing gloves especially when participating in competitions. Thai boxing or Muay Thai is known as a stand-up striking sport where competitors fight inside a ring and attack each other with kicks and punches. Throwing, sweeping and clinching is also allowed in Muay Thai. Muay Thai has other eccentricities which separates it from other sports such as the popular pre-fight dance ritual which is widely known as Wai Kru Ram Muay. Furthermore, there is the Mongkon or head dress and during each fight there is Sarama music.
A matter of survival
It was during the Sukhothai dynasty of Thailand in the 13th century that Muay Thai was first developed. This was tumultuous times where it was critical for Thai soldiers to defend the kingdom by whatever means available. For this reason, the soldiers of Thailand were trained in both unarmed and armed combat. Muay Thai boxing was continually refined over hundreds of years until it finally reached its current form. Over the last couple of centuries there was frequent wars with tribes and kingdoms and because of this Muay Thai became an important influence in the kingdom of Siam which is the ancient name of Thailand. Suwit Muay Thai with healthiness nutrition is a good Muay Thai training program. As one can see, Muay Thai has been a tremendous inspiration for people over hundreds of years and it is not surprising that it continues to inspire so many people today not only in Thailand but also across the planet.