Muay Thai is a very unique fighting style that does not rely on the usage of weapons like swords or sticks – instead, the practitioner of Muay Thai becomes a deadly weapon themselves. Muay Thai is a highly popular combat sport that has existed for years; the head, fists, elbows, knees and feet were the traditional “weapons” in Muay Thai, but these days the use of the head is not allowed in competitions. This fighting style is very different from others due to its implementation of striking techniques, including the use of knees and elbows. All parts of the body are used to overcome the enemy in Muay Thai, whether it’s for attacking or defending. No matter where the student is training, these techniques are pretty much universal. Traditional locations like Muay Thai Phuket offer the most true-to-purpose regimens for learning.
Punching techniques, known as chok, are considered less effective in combat due to the vulnerabilities that are opened up in the process, leaving the fighter defenseless against knee and elbow strikes. Elbow techniques, known as dhee sork, are used in Muay Thai in a variety of ways and are considered to be one of the most powerful forms of attack available to the Muay Thai student. Kicking techniques or dhe are heavily used in Muay Thai. There are many different types of kicks that are taught – these techniques are basically the bread and butter of a Muay thai fighter. Knee techniques are also used heavily, and in different ways. Also known as dhe kao, the knees are one of the most powerful parts of the body that can be used to attack the enemy. Aside from offensive techniques, Muay Thai also teaches many defensive techniques as well, classified into six categories: avoidance, evasion, blocking, redirection, disruption and anticipation.