Thai Boxing – how Muay Thai often is named – has its origin in Thailand where even today it is one of the most exerted national sports.

It is assumed that Thai Boxing originally has its roots in Chinese Kung Fu, but over time has changed dramatically. Its first original reference Thai Boxing had in the 16th century. Muay Thai played a huge role in wars with the Burmese, Khmer and Vietnamese.

Already in old writings fists, elbows, knees and feet were named as the eight main weapons of Thai Boxing. But the traditional Thai Boxing – also named Muay Thai Boran (Boran = traditional, old) – includes also fighting with weapons (Krabi Krabong).

Today Thai Boxing is known for more than an unarmed Martial Art. After the second World War Thai Boxing became subject to major changes. Fixed rules were introduced to make it to more attractive Martial Arts.

The most remarkable characteristics of Muay Thai are knee and elbow techniques and clinching. Depending on the regulations also kick techniques to the head, as well as catching and holding of the opponent’s leg. Fist techniques of Thai Boxing are equal to the techniques of traditional European Boxing.

Whereas people in Europe exercise Muay Thai as fitness or competition sports, but not much in public interest, it has a more important meaning in Asia. Good Thai Boxer are praised stars and can become rich with their Martial Arts.

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