Jump Rope For Boxing and Muay Thai

Jump Rope for boxing and Muay Thai is probably one of the most fun and important tools to developing light-feet, tricky footwork ability, increased cardio as well as working as a warm up.

There are many ways to jump rope. In any gym it is unlikely that two people will skip with the same style, intensity and rhythm. Jumping rope, or skipping rope as it is also know, is truly a personal experience. Some People find a fifteen minute skipping session to be one of the most redundant and boring parts of training. Me, I find this part of training something that I look forward to each and every training session.

One idea that I love to bring to my jump-rope session is to do more in less. What I mean by this is concentrated effort. For most combat athletes I know, many of them will skip for a time of 15 minutes. I believe that 15 minutes of skipping-rope is a good place to start. However, as our ability increases and we become more fluid in the movements I think it is important to concentrate on "quality time" and do more in less time: take the 15 minute session and squeeze it down to 8 minutes of full speed, hardcore, no playing around intensity. Quicker footwork, more rotations of the rope, variety of foot-placement as well as intense high-knees for longer durations is a good place to start when applying the "do more in less" philosophy. "More in Less" is a simple way of training intensity and getting more out of a workout with less time.

So you may be wondering what types of things you can do while jumping rope...here are a few things I like to do:

8 minute Session:

*30 seconds Swing the rope at full speed...keeping light on the toes.

**30 Seconds high knees bringing knees up to the chest

***30 seconds of "double-under's"... jump up as high as possible... allow the rope to pass under the feet 2 times before landing into the next jump!

****30 seconds of footwork: Jump in stance left&right side; jump alternating front foot forward *back foot forward; criss crossing the legs, feet wide, feet held together, alternate landing heel to toe / toe to heel....

Each of the previous methods twice will equal 8 minutes. Have fun. Mix it Up.

If jumping-rope does not add burn your muscles, increase your heart rate, and add a burn to your throat, I imagine your skipping style is one that can last for an easy 30minutes.

The better I get at skipping rope the harder and more difficult i find it to be.

Now we have all seen many different kinds of jump ropes. Here are a few that come to mind, although there a certainly more variations out there: Leather Ropes, Nylon Ropes, "Speed-Ropes", Weighted Handle Ropes, Digital/Counting Ropes, Plastic Red/Blue/White Beads Ropes, and the classic Muay Thai Jump Rope made of "hollowed" thick and heavy plastic with wooden handles. The question you may ask is...which is best?

With all the different types of jump-ropes on the circuit I find the Classic Muay Thai Jump Rope to be the most durable and challenging one that i have come across. This rope made of plastic tubing is quite heavy, has a lot of drag to it, requires much more physical effort for each turn/revolution than a "standard" jump rope found at most Sporting Goods stores and will certainly work muscle endurance throughout the entire arms and shoulders. Also, the weight is balanced throughout the rope as opposed to one with weighted handles. Although this thick plastic jump rope as seen in Thailand is harder to use than any other kind if have seen, it is certainly well worth the extra effort and if you bring intensity to the workout this rope can get moving quite fast.

Although for obvious reasons the Thai-rope is not as fast as a thin speed-rope, the weight and drag keeps the feeling of actually having to work very hard and continuous, especially when targeting speed. whichever the case, there are many kinds of jump-ropes to fit every type of person. So, if you do not have a jump rope....Get one! This is a great training tool, easy to carry, and can be done almost anywhere!

Work hard, have fun and smile!

The Benefits of Thai Boxing For Teens

In this day of childhood obesity, parents are always looking for ways to get their teenagers off the couch and getting exercise in a way that is fun and doesn't feel like work. This is where Thai Boxing comes in. Regardless of your child's age or skill level, this exciting program will help them in many ways. Your child will develop self-control, confidence, self-discipline, and focus, all while learning valuable self-defense. This workout will increase your child's strength, stamina, coordination, and stability.

From a cardiovascular standpoint, your child will develop core strength, improve his reflexes, and increase his flexibility. Kids dealing with mental stress (and what teenager isn't!) find this to be a very positive outlet. Teens will also make friendships with other kids with similar interests. Teenagers are typically dealing with peer pressure and low self-esteem. Learning Thai boxing will help your child to be confident, self-assured, and respectful of others. The main focus of Martial Arts training in general is not just about learning self-defense. It is about perfection of character.
Because boxing helps an individual's concentration, it is often a recommended workout for kids with ADD or ADHD. They benefit from the structured training techniques. It also helps them channel any anger or frustration they are feeling and gives them a needed outlet for their excess energy.

You may be worried that your child will become increasingly violent with his newfound knowledge. Since such emphasis is put on respecting others, bullying is not a result of Martial Arts training. As a matter of fact, kids and teenagers develop more positive social behaviour as a result of their skill. You may also be worried that your child will be injured. Statistics show that your child will more likely be injured playing sports, than in practicing Martial Arts. However, you should make sure that the program in which you enrol your teenager uses safety measures, such as padded floors and that protective equipment is worn during sparring.

Whether your teenager is an introvert or an extrovert, this program can benefit him in many ways. Thai boxing can draw the introvert out of his shyness and bring out his inner "tiger." He will come away feeling more self-confident than ever. The extrovert will find Thai boxing to be an excellent way to channel all his surplus energy. He will become calmer and more composed now that he has a healthy outlet in which to compete with others. The bottom line is this: your child will come out of the program a healthier, more rounded individual that you can be very proud of. He will be more prepared to face the future with the skills and knowledge that he has obtained here.

Essential Muay Thai Boxing Equipment

When you starting out in Muay Thai, there is other essential Thai boxing equipment that you need apart from Thai boxing shorts. Getting your own equipment should not be necessary as the gym should provide some gloves, shin guards and body protection. Although in my experience, one session of putting your hands and legs in cold, wet and smelly communal equipment will give you the push to get your own.

The first protective wear you should consider getting is thai boxing gloves as these will be the things you will use the most. There are many designs, colours and makes out there, so it is down to personal choice and how much money you wish to spend. The main makes of Muay Thai gloves are Twins, Kings, Raja and Windy.

You may need to purchase some hand wraps, as these will help support your wrist and hand when you begin to punch hard. If you are confused on how to put these on your hands, then there are lots of great videos on the Internet that will teach you. Somebody in your gym will be willing to show you too, so do not be shy to ask.

Shin guards will be the next piece of thai boxing equipment that you may wish to invest in as you will be using these quite a bit. Just like the gloves, these range in price and quality, so it just depends on your budget and needs. The main makes are Twins, Kings, Raja and Windy, these have different thicknesses and sizes. For sparring and general use I would advise to to get the thickest ones to begin with.

Last on your list to get is a gum shield. It is advisable that you order one of these quite quickly though as you will soon be holding pads for other people, so it is rather to be safe than knocked out. There are many options to choose from, but I would advise to spend some money on this as the more expensive ones are better quality.

Shadow Boxing - More than just a warm-up

Shadow boxing is often looked at as just a warm-up before the formation of boxing itself. As it should be! Shadow boxing no doubt serves to warm and prepare the body for the training program.

Above all, shadow boxing helps you groove the skills you learned.

It 'best before a shadow box mirror where you can master the skill you taught. I often say ... Mirror does not lie. Once you know what to look for, it is impossiblebad technique in front of the mirror!

If you're really in what you do while shadow boxing, the progression of more attention. Your coach does not bark to keep his hands to hold or dispose of that right hook while working the bags. He is very happy to see, do your rapid progression for your commitment of solid technique when shadow boxing.

great fighters will tell you ... that, imagine if shadow box and move real-life situations that are perhapsthe ring. Can you imagine an opponent in front of them. From combo offensive, defensive tactics, everything is covered.

Look for a body language expert fighter and eyes during this operation. It shows I'm in another world. In fact, they are a world in which they see some moderation. You wonder why these fighters get so good? Because she sees herself first.

Think about that next time shadow box.

Boxing training

What you need to train as a boxer? It 's a good question. Well, how about fitness and knowledge of the technical side of boxing, the beats right, the right technique.

Boxers are in good shape. Of course. They can not last 12-15 laps boxes if you are in shape.
Therefore, you should see Boxer running, jumping rope, shadow boxing, for hours in the gym. Build strength and endurance. The name and do the hard work.

Because they know it will payat the end. They are also sparring ring. Practice punching, combinations of certain stamps. Develop lightening reflexes and hand-eye coordination.
So if the boxer is ready to fight, he is in top physical condition. Ready to go far.
But the boxer himself most likely started by joining a boxing club near their hometown. And this is a great way for anyone to learn this art.

But when a fighter shows some promise and commitment,have an experienced coach boxing ring. seen - - Someone who has been there. Someone who can teach them the technical aspects of boxing.

Well, whatever the formation of a boxer, train after a boxing program.
One who teaches them how to fight, ring craft and how to become fitter at the same time.
But what about the ordinary guy? Does anyone know how to punch properly (and more in the form of boxes) will. There must be "certainly an easier way.

To ensure longevity in your boxing training

To box, you must be in good shape. The effort and time required to reach this level of fitness is too intense for most people. You did really difficult to get a shot at the highest levels of sport.

Surprisingly, however, prevented most mediocre boxers from their full potential is not hardness of heart or is their joints.

Without a conscious effort to protect your joints during exercise, may suffer from unnecessary harm.

Protect the ankle andKnee training, while at the gym

Casual boxing fans barely notice Boxer 'shoes. If they do, you probably do not give a second glance. However, good boxing are essential for boxers who want to keep with the sport in the long run.

Boxing shoes with smooth soles. This favors the rotation - an essential part of most of the shooting - without loading on the ankle and knee.

It 's a mistake to use street shoes or shoes for other sports as designedBasketball or jogging. The sole member, and the lack of ankle support will end up damaging the ligaments of the knee.

Protect your hands and wrists during training boxing

Most people understand that the hands boxers' and wrists take a beating - literally - on the pads, bags and sparring.

Who do not know that protective gear such as padded gloves and hand wraps is essential for long-term viability of these delicate joints. Without hand wraps, it would be Boxernot be able to continue the sport in the past several years, even if they never suffer a serious injury like a broken bone or a dislocated thumb.

Wraps change the hand of a set of small delicate bones in a single unit to withstand repeated blows designed to damage an opponent. Smart Boxer never know the train without enclosures.

Protect your back while training in gym

The lower back is the connection between his legs and shoulders. Boxer weaken orhurt their lower back during training can be found ineffective and injury-prone.

As most fighters spend a lot 'of time and effort to strengthen abdominal muscles, they run the risk of uneven development in the lower back. Strong abdominal muscles and lower back is a weak way to avoid injuries, which are easily avoided if the back-strengthening exercises incorporated into the workout routine from the beginning.

Blanking - hooks and uppercuts in particular - have much speedLoading of the lumbar spine. It 'a solid foundation is essential, before having a handful of intensive training.

Thai Boxing Shorts

Thai boxing shorts are standard dress, while Muay Thai fights and training. The shorts are designed specifically to help you complete freedom of movement, which is very important during training and competition. There is a wide range of Thai boxing shorts to choose from now, they are traditionally made of satin, if you can mix choose other materials such as nylon or polyester.

Most of the leading manufacturers like Twins, Windy, Raja and Kingoffer a wide selection of Thai Boxing Shorts size and color. This is to keep pace with the demand of the growing popularity of this sport.

Many Muay Thai camps and clubs around the world as their fighters the same colors / design with the name of the place you have to train. Although, if you train, it's great, you can bring your personality through your unique pair of shorts Thai expression, with your choice of colors and designs.

Muay Thai isThailand's national sport, has existed for hundreds of years. The sport has grown rapidly in popularity around the world. People participate for many reasons, such as general fitness, learning the techniques needed is a challenge to make new routes to friends that a new hobby, and want to compete.

Everyone can Muay Thai, with many clubs now with special classes for women, children and private lessons. In Thailand there are many areas offer a WesternerOpportunity to learn the basics or develop your techniques. Thai Boxing shorts are a great place to start if he wanted to feel part des Sports

Muay Thai Boxing Camp - life as a young Thai fighter

Muay Thai when directly translated into English and Thai boxing. Also known as Muay Thai Muay Thai is a way of life for many children and young people in Thailand and is a way out of poverty for himself and his family hunt. A Thai boxer is the home at an early age by parents often do not leave the money to take care of him.

For the next ten years, a Muay Thai left to themselves in terms of hundreds of spectators, struggling for money,fighting for his life! The national sport in Thailand, Thai fights for many generations of males and females, and is sometimes practiced. For thousands of Thai Muay Thai children will continue to fight for the common way out of the ghetto and poor rural areas of Thailand. For a full contact combat sport is, this martial art consume more than a lifetime NAK Muay. Fighting is his life. The training is his life. A typical Thai fighters spend 25 hours a week or morePerfecting his technique, while several hundred sit ups a day to go further. If the young fighter is not in school, it is likely that he spends 35 or more hours per week in training camp. Often, his first fight after only a few weeks into his new life as a fighter. He will need to harden quickly and Muay Thai instructor at the camp is very safe.

A professional Muay Thai camp has a young fighter, a boxer as soon as possible on foot. It isimportant for the training camp to find out what made the baby and he will be tested. His first fight against Muay Thai fighters from other similar age with similar experience. But soon the young boxers to fight other fighters at his level significantly. At this point you are going to win battles or grass themselves off the field. His fight in the ring and training gym will decide whether he is good to the barn. Her purse fight will take care of him and a victorymeans money for his family at home. If the young fighter does not know what they are qualified for a Nak Muay he does not rest in the situation. Thai Mauy a stock depends on its strongest fighting as a circuit depends on the horses.

From the U.S. perspective, a parent, a child of an environment of full contact fighting child abuse and probably charge sends convicted. Although many Thai fighters do not choose this life as their first choice, it is often the onlyElection. adapt as fighters, Muay Thai is a child of brothers and other activists in the field to help him, his new home will be surrounded. The training camp is where you live, eat, sleep and play. Young Nak Muay will be provided. Fighting is the opportunity to attend a school and perhaps a world champion fighter or a trainer of new generation of boxers to be.

Boxing Bell - A look Definite must have in every boxing match

It 'difficult if not impossible to imagine a boxing match. A bell boxing is also a staple in every boxing match or boxing as the girls that come and go on duty at the beginning of each turn signal. Simply or feel that something about the game is all wrong. Boxing bell work on the beginning and end of each round and give the game a whole. The Classic is made of metal, while the more recent varieties can be placed in plastic boxesmechanisms are installed with sound, lights and sockets.

Forward and electronic

There are two main types of boxes bells: the bells and strikers electronically. The bells are attacking in chrome or brass, and where popular in 1920 and 1930. This is a type of boxing bell comes with a ball, the striker of hardwood. A bell striker also has a hole in the bottom and can be easily mounted close to the ring.

ElectronicsBell, on the other hand, are coded with colored buttons. The buttons of red, green and yellow are given for different stages of a round. They also delay functions in a game shorter or longer than expected.

Shopping tips

When it comes to boxing bell, you must test the battery life. For professional tournaments, the variety of metal a much wiser choice, because they can be used for a long period of time. If you are having regular games, it is alsobetter to opt for electric powered models because they are portable. You can also use just about any place that has a power outlet, so they are comfortable.

Muay Thai Boxing - History and Description

Muay Thai is an international professional sport and martial arts. Known as the "King of the Ring" in kickboxing circles, art, Muay Thai is the struggle that comes from Thailand and their national sport.

Although still very much a sport based in Thailand, Muay Thai is now gain acceptance in America and throughout the Western world, with local and international tournaments hosted a lot more often. The Thai fighters are very tough to beat opponentsof their technique and conditioning, but the world is catching up, claiming victories against several of the best Thai.

Modern Muay Thai fights are fought in a ring, very similar to western boxing matches. Perhaps the most beautiful and most interesting of Muay Thai is the crowd of spectators gathered to watch a game. With techniques such as kicks, punches and the extensive use of elbows and knees, Muay Thai is often defined as the science of eight limbs.

MuayThai is the national sport of Thailand and Muay Thai dates back 3,000 years was used by the Thai military for unarmed combat training. Many modern Muay Thai fighters have taken the sport as a career. I think that has gained such popularity, especially in Thailand, because many Thai national people saw as a way to make a good life, if that had happened. You must remember the average income in Thailand is rather low, so the attraction to earn more moneysomething that love was strong and well.

Strategies for fighting Muay Thai is the first book of strategies and tactics for fighting real show, as taught in the boxing camps in Thailand. As expected, conditioning in Muay Thai is legendary for its intensity and high expectations. This is an old question of which fighting style is better? Everyone who practices Muay Thai will say Muay Thai is better and the same with Karate.

Muay Thai Kickboxing is no longer aman sport, train with many women nowadays coming to boxing gyms to rationalize fighting fit, and learn self-defense. Muay Thai is not crazy to throw strikes. This shows that strikes are crisp fast and dangerous. If you saw a Muay Thai fight in real life or on television, you know that while Muay Thai is known for his kicking leg, turn the big football game in the neck for the knockout power. The key to beating the opponent in a Muay Thai fight is shin kicks deliveredRoundhouses legs, ribs and head.

Boxing Rankings

Boxing rankings are important for several reasons. In particular, people can find out what their favorite boxer holds it in place compared to other boxers. This is well known to fans of boxing media. Then there are those who are away for a bit 'of money from boxing. It helps the charts, it is the best thing to do, know, know. You are certainly not thousands of dollars for a fighter who ranks number ten bet if the number tenBoxer fights number two. If it were not for the rankings, should find this information on your own, which can be very difficult and could cause a loss of money.

They say that boxing rankings are usually pretty good idea of what an individual makes a conscious decision to support the Boxer, it's gambling or not. This allows fans to know how their boxer stands up to rest and also allows fans to get the new Boxersupport.

The player

Just think how someone would have lost money betting on a boxer, if not for boxing rankings. Of course I could try, the track of victories and defeats, but that would require extensive research. Research is therefore more extensive room for error. If you have large sums at stake, this can be very dangerous. It 'true that a person can go through the ranking boxes and still lose the bet for the underdog pulled a surprise victory.However, chances are truer to try boxing rankings rather than go into a blind bet. This means there is less chance that the player the money that are set to lose the bet.

The non-player

The non-player is the one that should be used strictly for the love of sport Rank Boxing. This is the person who lives, eats, breathes and simply loves boxing and you know who love the beginning, especially if it is a boxer he is. Then again,may be another fighter that you want this based solely on boxing rankings will follow. This can be fun and rewarding, because it is then that you can choose to think what would be surprising to see boxing live.

So if you are working to find boxes and want to know that boxers are at the top of their game, check out the boxing rankings, discover. Can be surprised and enlightened that is near the top. You may also be after a certain boxer. ThatYou made a fan of the right.

Muay Thai - Thai Boxing and children

Known by many as Thai Boxing, Muay Thai is the national sport of Thailand and is viewed with enthusiasm and chased by a majority of the population. This form of hard martial art is not just a sport, it is considered a form of entertainment, and makes for an entertaining evening for many people in Thailand who have never been a Muay Thai fighter ever seen.

What is the Muay Thai?

Muay Thai is an ancient martial art that originated hundreds of years.Over the centuries, the sport has changed something and developed various forms of sport today have developed over the years, the origins of Muay Boran (ancient boxing) in the form of Thai boxing, you see.

Besides being a sport, Thai boxing is the war was a form as well. Armies have been trained in the art of Muay Thai, to protect the king, and with a story like this one can easily see how it has become a popular sportThailand!

How does the Muay Thai boxing is different from Western?

Today boxers do not use bare hands, use it, but the use of gloves similar to those used in Western boxing. Apparently punching will be used if the gloves and punching are the similarities between these two types of boxing end!

Muay Thai is often called "The art of eight limbs" because eight body parts of Muay Thai boxers are used - with both hands, elbows, knees andThe Shins are needed. This is in contrast with Western boxing, where there are only two members, or two focal points - the fists.

For each point of contact there are many different movements, to use Thai boxer, makes this an interesting and very technical sport, and one that is often taught from a young age. Children regularly compete for the title but is often the children who draw the biggest crowds, some Western visitors may find that just goes to fight these childrenagainst their values and beliefs.

Muay Thai Boxer baby

There is no doubt that only a night of Muay Thai is a good time and if there is a competition on while you are visiting Thailand should try to go and watch a few laps at least, finally, this is the national sport in the country!

Despite the entertainment value of some tourists might be a bit 'too controversial, if young children, including girls, to take the ring andHe began punching and kicking each other! This is not something you expect in the Western world would have seen the bottom, and some tourists may leave a bit 'shocked. Why parents should push them into a dangerous sport so young? If they are so that parents and educators can use to make money from them? These are the sorts of questions that cross the minds of many people, but there are advantages and disadvantages of children competing in Muay Thai.

Arguments in favorChildren competing in Muay Thai

Although it may be controversial, there are many advantages for children compete in Muay Thai. Here are some ...

Although Thailand is a country in transition there are still many people struggling to make ends meet here, working long hours for little money. With the start of training at a young age and always successful, children can win competitions, which help pay for their education, can provide food, clothing, books and other things,otherwise be difficult to obtain.

Compulsory education up to class 9 in these children should not miss any school training and combat, but if you want to succeed in sport continue to compete in his teens and adults give them an adequate income.

Child Boxer train hard for their games. Rare injuries occur when children are trained so well in defense and agility.

With all the education that theyChild Boxer be kept very fit and healthy, probably a lot more Thai than other children.

Arguments against competing in Muay Thai children

The benefits sound good, but opponents say there are also many disadvantages, such as children who are exploited by greedy parents, it is dangerous, should enjoy their childhood, etc. etc., and while these are valid points that Don 't necessarily apply to all children thai boxer.

SomeChildren can be exploited, but others are merely encouraged by a parent or coach can see the potential in them. It would be wrong to promote competition in an age so young, but this is not unique to Thailand - the beauty contests for girls in North America, some are popular, others may be supported by such exploitation, such as Thai boxing, all What else?

Make up your mind, as I became an evening of Muay ThaiThe next time I'm in Thailand!

Muay Thai Boxing: an ancient sport

Muay Thai Boxing is a sport that for years, to thousands, and is still practiced as a professional sport and a hobby. And 'the national sport of Thailand and millions of Thai men is practiced. It has often been compared to Thailand so that the Football in Ecuador, or hockey in Canada is compared.

If you've ever watched a game on TV, you know it's an extremely brutal sport. If you are interested in martial arts at all, isimportant to see Muay Thai as a form is very popular. Here are some of the basics of the sport.

A game Muay Thai ceremony focuses on how more on how to beat the spit out your opponent. Before each game, the two fighters their initiation rituals that reflect the general education of their employers, or schools where they learned their fighting technique.

As Muay Thai is a sport often deeply religious, some pray Figherthemselves or with their coaches before the game in an attempt to increase its capacity. In addition, the Wai Kru is a ritual where the combatants circle each other around the ring, sealing means for the fight.

Muay Thai is focused on eight areas of the body, as distinct points. These are the hands, shins, elbows and knees. Most martial arts use fists and feet first, only this part of Muay Thai. Often we see the combatants apart immediately, the blockHeads with each other. Then trade blows with the knees, striking the other in the abdomen and chest. Sometimes I blowing over the trade entire game, bloodied and beaten breast tenderness, a pulp.

Moreover, the whole world with Thai take related games and tournaments, Muay Boxing has done a lot of fun for the Western world. Many games are broadcast on channels in the U.S., and brought the movie Ong Bak and protectorMore information about increased interest in the sport, with the Muay Thai master Tony Jaa.

Like most martial arts training can be found almost everywhere. But when you really learn the sport and is the next great Muay Thai fighters want, you may need to go to Thailand and a coach you learn the true art up!

Thai boxing matches and tourists

Thailand is the land of smiles known, but also has a more rough. The country is also known for his own form of combat known as Thai boxing.

If you leave the country, one inevitably play runs over a Thai-boxing. It is a wild form of struggle, WHERE elbows and knees can be used for Damage your opponent do some 'serious. There is malignant and incredibly exciting to watch as well. The Thai people love him and is certainly qualified as the nationalsports.

On your vacation you can find Thai boxing happens in the strangest places. In the midst of a group of bars and restaurants, is often an open space be set with a ring. You can just plop a table, a drink or two adults and watch football.

Unfortunately, you are not Thai-boxing. Watch Entertainment. The fighting is set to buy beer. This makes them no less exciting, but keep in mindfalse. If you want your friends to bet on the outcome, I can recommend an easy way to earn a couple of beers. The rule of each game is simple. A competitor will almost dropped out. It will be an impressive comeback and sweep away the other guy. You can set the clock accordingly.

For real Thai boxing matches, you have to ask. They are found in almost all cities. Apart from that, they are not in tourist areas. Instead, they are buried, in general, after a side roadThen take a local taxi and get a ride to one. You must pay at the door and the fight is not tourist friendly. By this I mean no one will be something to announce in English. As a result, with a friend, a Thai who speaks your language can be a good move along.

Sporting events are often a good place to see the true personality of a country. Thailand is the land of smiles known, but there is a dark side defined. If you think that everyone lives a peaceful Buddhistgo into shock when one of these games. The Thai people are no different than anyone else. Are screaming and the whole game up!

Thailand's tourism industry has a smooth. If you want to see a bit 'of the real Thailand pay more on it, a real Thai boxing match. You'll enjoy it.

Ancient Muay Thai (Thai Boxing)

     Muay Boran is the Other name of Ancient Thai Boxing. It is a traditional form of Muay Thai which is still taught and practiced in Thailand. Muay Boran is still practiced and taught in order to preserve the Boxing Techniques from Muay Thai's History before the introduction of formalized rules and the introduction of gloves in the 1930s. Muay Boran is the ancestor of the modern day Muay Thai Boxing. Most of the Facts of Muay Boran have been extinct now, many of the original records from Thailand regarding this fascinating subject were destroyed in the sacking of Ayuddhaya in 1767 and others lost in the mists of time.

     The late Arjarn Samai Messamarn from the Buddhai Swan Institute in Thailand was able to make a study of the Thai empty hand system using the scant resources available in Thailand. This research also took him to Burma where he was able to gain access to historical records on the subject of the Siamese systems of warfare. Using this information and the painstaking research done within Thailand, Arjarn Samai was able to document and confirm 60 Awudt Muay Boran techniques and fighting methods. Only two records of the techniques, hand-painted on parchment now exist. Arjarn Samai's son, Arjarn Werayut Messamarn recently visited England bringing with him one of these unique documents.

     It is believed that the Siamese people had their own styles of fighting, in each Kingdom a different style. These fighting systems have clearly been evolving for many hundreds of years and have been known under many different names such as; "Arwut Thai" (meaning Thai Weapons), "Pahuyut" (armed, unarmed combat). Much later, at the end of the Ayuthaya Period, or around the beginning of the Thonburi

     Teaching Ancient Muay Thai" Period after a long history of fighting against the Burmese, King Phra Thaksin "The Great" finally pushed all invaders from the Kingdoms of Siam and with this the Chakri dynasty began. The Chakri dynasty with King Rama I on the throne, marked a period when nearly all of the separate Kingdoms of Siam joined together to become the country we now know as Thailand. At the end of the 1700's, with wars against invaders over,fighters began to compete locally, and often in front of the King to see who had the best style. Most people recognize this period in the history of Muay Thai as fighters used to wrap their hands in cotton twine.

     Today, people refer to this style of fighting (during this period) as "Muay Kaad Chuak" although at the time, this isn't the term people used. "Muay Kaad Chuak" began to decline around the 1920's, finally ending in 1929 with a death in the ring. Although the government of the time prohibited this style of fighting(with wrapped hands) people still continued to practice the arts and fight underground. Eventually, by introducing rules, and providing fighters with better protection, competition became safer, and the sport of Muay Thai was born. Here are some information of the techniques used: Technique 6 (Buddhai Swan) - The boxer grabs the opponent's neck twisting him from side to side, and then throwing a knee to the opponent's body, finally the boxer will push the opponent away finishing with a high kick to the opponent's neck.

     To clarify, the name given to the technique usually refers to an action within that technique, not necessarily the whole technique or even the end result but for instance the action of breaking (hak) the neck (kor) in Hak Kor Erawan or the action of presenting or offering something up in Hanuman Tawai Wen. From the 60 major techniques in the Buddhai Swan syllabus there are other minor techniques plus many different variations and additional moves that can follow on from the main techniques. A good example of this is the technique "GAA JIK KAI" translated Crow pecks the egg which is basically fast jabs to the opponent's face but from the jab one could choose any technique e.g. round kick (daet), front kick (teep), right uppercut (uppercut kwaa) or many others.

     Besides the Buddhai Swan techniques, we have uncovered at least another 60 different techniques from various sources including Arjarn Yodthong from the Sityodthong Camp, Arjarn Panya Kraitus author of the book "Muay Thai Most Distinguished Art of Fighting", the late Khun Bunyuen Suvanatdha former head of the Amateur Muay Thai Association of Thailand and Kru Lang of the Sitpralang Camp in Ayuddhaya.

     The discovery of Muay Boran in the West has taken us on a journey back through time. The modern sport of Muay Thai has been established here for nearly 30 years, we are now moving backwards and have discovered the time before sport when contests were fought for honour or freedom. It is merely a blink of the eye in time before we reach our final destination and find the mother of the Thai martial arts - Krabi Krabong.

Muay Thai Boxing

     Because Thai boxers are allowed kick with their feet and use their elbows, Muay Thai requires a lot more skill than western boxing and can seem to be a much more brutal show. Yet, there is often a level of respect between the fighters that makes it a more honorable sport than the pugilism you may be used to back home. And, rather than the rap or heavy metal music that plays at many American matches, you will often hear traditional wood winds and chimes at a boxing match in Thailand! What you may not know is that Muay Thai is part of Thailand's ancient heritage.

Thai Boxing In History

     Traditional Thai boxing goes back hundreds of years and has been an important part of the country's history. Many people are surprised that Thais, a notoriously peaceful people, excel at this beautifully brutal sport. The reason they do so is that for hundreds of years the survival of their nation depended on it. Because the terrain on the Thailand borders is often rough and uneven, it was not in the Thai's advantage to develop long range weapons to ward off invaders.

     Instead they decided to create a close hand to hand style of fighting that would lead to battles that favored the defenders over the invading armies - who would never understand the local terrain as well as the patriots they were fighting. As long ago as the mid 1500s, the celebrated warrior king Naresuan The Great - a boxing legend - made Muay Thai a mandatory part of his army's military training.

     Perhaps the most famous instance of Thai boxing in the countries history came 200 years later when the warrior Nai Khanom Tom was kidnapped by Burma during a raid on Siam's capitol. After he was captured he made a challenge to his Burmese captors. If he could take on 10 of their best fighters at once and win, Burma would free him and his people. Thinking that they would easily prevail, the Burmese agreed. Nai Khanom then used his Muay Thai skills to defeat all 10 adversaries and return to Thailand as one of the nation's greatest heroes!

Modern Muay Thai

     For much of its history Muay Thai was a brutal dangerous sport. It was raw hand to hand combat - with ropes and cords wrapped around the hands instead of gloves. As Thailand has entered the modern age, the rules have changed slightly to protect the fighters, who now wear padded gloves and protection for their groins. While boxers can still use their elbows and feet during the match most of the other rules have been modified to comply with international boxing regulations. This has allowed the popularity of Muay Thai to spread throughout the world and today you can find Thai Boxing training centers in most of the western world including the United States and Russia.

     In Thailand itself Muay Thai is even more popular than soccer and is broadcast on television five to seven nights a week. Many of the fighters begin training when they are only seven or eight years old and some have made the move to western style boxing - and become international stars in their own right! The best modern Muay Thai combatants fight in the Lumpini or Ratchadamnoen stadiums to a universally packed audience. If you want to see a fight and not have to face very long lines, your best bet is to go to one of the stadiums around 6:30 p.m. on a Sunday - when attendance is at its lowest point for the week. There are usually several lower ranked fights before the main event - which you can expect to kick off around 9 p.m.

The Rules

     Of course, Muay Thai has its own unique set of rules which may be confusing at first to a western spectator. Before the fight can begin, each fighter must perform a wai khru dance as a way to show respect for his teachers and trainers.

There are only five rounds.

Boxers must wear gloves.

The gloves must weigh at least six ounces.

     Gloves can not be squeezed in any way that would alter their original shape.

Each round is three minutes long and there is a two minute break in between rounds.

The winner is decided by knockout or by points. Whoever wins the most rounds wins the fight.

Contestants can only wear red or blue trunks.

Shirts and shoes are not allowed.

Both fighters must wear groin protection.

Before the fight a sacred cloth called the Mongkol may be worn as a headband. It must be removed before the fighting begins. The cloth is worn to pay homage to the fighter's trainers and heritage. It is also thought to give the fighter good luck. All equipment must be provided by the stadium. This includes a stopwatch, a signal gong, a warning bell, boxing gloves, water, jock straps and surgical tape.

Learning Muay Thai

     Some men, after watching these beautiful guys pummel each other in the ring are tempted to learn the sport themselves. While that used to be impossible - as local trainers for centuries would only train local Thai men starting from a young age, all that changed in 1997. That's when the World Muay Thai Council established the first recognized training academy for the sport. The Muay Thai Institute in Rangsit, just north of Bangkok was created as a way to make this cherished sport accessible to everyone and preserve its fabled heritage.

     All of the teachers at the institute are former champions and they are required to speak English. They will teach anyone and everyone - including women and foreigners. The course covers most of the historical and cultural background of Muay Thai as well as the physical skills and fitness training. You can take classes to learn how to be a referee or on how to start your own stadium or training program. Dormitories are available but you might be considerably more comfortable taking a nearby hotel for your 15 day stay.

The first three levels of training cost roughly $160 per course, while the fourth, expert level course is much more rigorous and costs about $1,200. School management can help you with any student visa issues that may pop up.

Come And Enjoy The Show

     Whether you want to just sit back and watch the guys fight, or if you want to lace up your gloves and join in yourself, Thai boxing is something no one should miss on any trip to Thailand.