Thai Boxing is an explosive Martial Art that utilises the ‘science of eight limbs’. This means that elbows and knees are used as well as the usual punching and kicking associated with other Martial Arts, such as Kick Boxing. Together with Thai’s unique blocking systems and emphasis on full power application of the techniques, to a pad target, mean that speed, power and stamina soon develop.
The origin of Muay Thai is subject to scholarly debates. Some believe that Muay Thai ultimately originated from the Khmer pre-Angkorean martial art Bokator, while others maintain it originated in Thailand. Muay Thai is believed to have been developed by the Siamese army as a form of self-defence and it can be traced at least to the 16th century as a peace-time martial art practised by the soldiers of King Naresuan. An exhibition of Muay Thai was observed and reported by Simon de la Loubère, a French diplomat who was sent by King Louis XIV to the Kingdom of Siam in 1687, in his famous work and the Ayutthaya Kingdom Burmese–Siamese War (1765–1767).[15] Muay Boran and therefore Muay Thai, was originally called by more generic names such as Toi Muay or simply Muay. As well as being a practical fighting technique for use in actual warfare, Muay became a sport in which the opponents fought in front of spectators who went to watch for entertainment. These Muay contests gradually became an integral part of local festivals and celebrations, especially those held at temples. Eventually, the previously bare-fisted fighters started wearing lengths of hemp rope around their hands and forearms. This type of match was called Muay Khat Chueak (มวยคาดเชือก).
19th Century
The ascension of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) to the throne in 1868 ushered in a golden age not only for Muay but for the whole country of Thailand. Muay progressed greatly during the reign of Rama V as a direct result of the king’s personal interest in the sport. The country was at peace and Muay functioned as a means of physical exercise, self-defense, attacking, recreation and personal advancement.