Since its introduction in the United States in the 1970s, kickboxing has been practiced by fighters and martial arts practitioners of all backgrounds. The fact that it is a hybrid martial art, one that combines elements from multiple different fighting styles, is one of the main reasons kickboxing is so celebrated today. If you trace the history of kickboxing back to Thailand and the South China Sea, however, you’ll see one specific martial art that takes the sport of fighting and elevates it to a whole new level. This art is known as Muay Thai.
The Differences of History
While kickboxing began as a truly “mixed” martial art in the 20th century, Muay Thai can trace its roots all the way back to the 16th century in Thailand. Practiced as a peace-time martial art. Indeed, the very word Muay Thai translates to “Thai boxing.” It was used to keep soldiers and fighting men in top physical shape, as well as an excellent method of physical exercise and self-defense. Continuing through the 19th century, Muay Thai contests were held in front of crowds during celebrations and festivals, culminating in the creation of formalized rules during the 1920s.
Muay Thai hit the height of its popularity in the 1980s and 90s in Thailand, soon becoming equally as popular in the west as MMA fighting hit the mainstream. As of 2021, Muay Thai became recognized by the International Olympic Committee as an Olympic sport, alongside kickboxing and sambo. We can’t wait to see the action on the world’s stage in Paris in 2024!
The Striking System
Kickboxing is a mixed martial art that revolves around the use of kicks and hand strikes, utilizing a point system to determine the victor. Similarly, Muay Thai grants points to combatants for striking specific, unguarded areas. However, muay Thai utilizes a few more techniques than kicks and punches. Known as the “art of eight limbs,” muay Thai teaches how to use the elbows and the shins in addition to the hands and feet. Blocking becomes a crucial element, where well-timed shin blocks and parries then lead to counter-attacks, and leg sweeps not seen in other martial arts.
In addition, Muay Thai includes grappling techniques known as clinching, which force the opponent into a better position to be struck; this differs greatly from traditional western boxing, for example, where combatants are separated if they ever clinch.
Is Either Sport Dangerous?
Any form of physical combat can be dangerous if performed wildly or unsupervised. Fortunately, at Absolute MMA, you will have some of the best instructors and practitioners of MMA watching and guiding every sparring match. Certain forms of personal protection are also mandatory during bouts, such as padded headgear, mouth guards, groin cups, and gloves. When practiced as intended, both muay Thai and kickboxing are sports that can be enjoyed by all ages, especially those looking to improve their confidence and fortitude.
Unleash Your Potential Through Muay Thai At Absolute MMA in West Jordan, Utah
Looking for the best Muay Thai instructors in the business? Look no further than Absolute MMA for world-class martial arts instruction. With teachers like Pedro Sierra (gold medal winner of the US Open and Pan Am Games in 2003) and Rob Handley (3rd degree BJJ black belt and coach for several prize-winning UFC and WFC fighters), you’ll learn the best from the best! Give us a call or sign up for a free trial today!
