Muay

Muay, more commonly known as Muay Thai, is the national sport and martial art of Thailand. The term Muay Thai translates roughly to “Thai boxing” and the art is often described as the “art of eight limbs” because practitioners use fists, elbows, knees, and shins.

Muay's origins lie in the battlefield traditions of Siam, and it evolved from older Thai martial arts such as Muay Boran. It became a regulated sport in the late 19th century, incorporating Western boxing rules, a standardized ring, gloves, and timed rounds. It is practiced both as a sport and as a form of self-defense and fitness.

Techniques emphasize stand-up striking and clinch work. Strikes combine punches, kicks, elbows, and knees; the clinch is a key phase for control and off-balancing an opponent. Training emphasizes conditioning, precision, timing, and rhythm. Traditional ceremonies such as the Wai Kru Ram Muay are performed before bouts to pay respect to teachers and opponents.

Competition takes place in gymnasiums, stadiums, and international events. Pro bouts typically consist of five rounds of five minutes with one-minute rest periods. Scoring emphasizes clean strikes, damage, control of distance, and effective clinch work. Elbow strikes are legal in most professional contexts, while amateur rules vary; protective gear such as gloves and mouthguards are common in amateur competition.

Internationally, Muay Thai has a global following and is governed by bodies such as the World Muaythai Council (WMC) and the International Federation of Muaythai Amateur (IFMA). It has influenced modern combat sports and is practiced for sport, fitness, and cultural exchange.

Muay remains a significant cultural symbol in Thailand, with rituals such as the Wai Kru and Ram Muay performed in competition and in practice, reflecting tradition and discipline in Thai society.