Originating from Thailand, Muay Thai is a martial art and combat sport that uses stand-up striking and clinching techniques. This discipline is recognized as the “art of eight limbs” as it utilizes combinations of fists, elbows, knees and shins. Here, a trusted Muay Thai and kickboxing school in San Diego takes a closer look at these eight weapons.
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Fists. In Muay Thai, the fists are effective in mid-range and the punches are similar in execution to those used in boxing. However, while punches in Western boxing are considered the only weapon at a boxer’s disposal, they are part of the wide arsenal of a Nak Muay, or a practitioner of Muay Thai. You can throw a variety of punches such as jabs, crosses, hooks and uppercuts. Punches are also used in combination with different kicks.
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Elbows. A distinct weapon of Muay Thai, the use of elbows separates the art from other striking-based martial arts such as Karate and Taekwondo. Elbow strikes are helpful in the clinch and in close-range combat. Upward, horizontal, slashing and spinning elbow strikes are among the variations of attacks that mainly utilize the elbow, which is something that you will not usually see in a traditional boxing club.
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Knees. Another well-known weapon of Muay Thai are the knees. Flashy and thrilling to watch, sure, but knees can be brutal and deadly when able to connect solidly. Knee strikes are also effective in the clinch and have variations that include straight knee, curved knee and diagonal knee.
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Shins and Feet. Kicks are among the most damaging moves in Muay Thai. In fact, the Muay Thai roundhouse is considered the strongest kick in any martial arts. The power of the kick is generated by the twisting hip and then transferred through the leg and the shin.
American Boxing is a martial arts school that offers health, fitness and lifestyle training. A certified personal trainer can help you train in Western Boxing and Muay Thai Kickboxing while following local and state guidelines for public safety. Call us today at (858) 581-2694 or fill out our online contact form to set up an appointment.