Muay Thai History and Techniques

Muay Thai Gear and its Interesting History

Muay Thai is the national sport of Thailand. It is a combat sport that is often referred to by experts as the "Art of Eight Limbs," as its movements make use of kicks, punches, and knee and elbow strikes, thereby using all eight points of contact. This makes it a sport that is both challenging and unique, and the best practitioners use the best gear and equipment, such as a high-quality Muay Thai Punching Bag. The gear and equipment for the sport boasts a history as interesting as the activity itself. The following are some intriguing facts about early Muay Thai training thailand gear and equipment.

The Tiger King

A Thailand ruler known as the Tiger King had considerable influence on MMA fighting styles, as well as the protective gear worn by fighters in the 1700s. His influence in many facets of the sport is still seen today.

Throughout the Tiger King's reign, those who participated in the sport bound their forearms and hands with strips of horsehair for the purpose of protecting the fighter and inflicting more damage on his adversary. Later, hemp ropes replaced the horse hair, but were eventually discontinued and replaced by the traditional boxing gloves seen today.

Until the 1930s, fighters were also required to wear groin guards, as groin kicks were a legal move within the sport until 1932. During the reign of the Tiger King, such guards were made from tree bark that was held in place with cloth. In some areas of the country, groin guards were also made from certain types of seashells.

Modern Gear

Specially designed kicking pads are usually worn during practice sessions. In past centuries such padding was made from virtually anything that was available, but in today's modern world MMA pads are specially manufactured for this challenging combat sport.

Headgear is also used, which protects fighters from head injuries and bruises to the face. Interestingly enough, this type of protection was virtually overlooked throughout the earlier centuries, as fighters were not keen on wearing any type of equipment that could potentially interfere with their vision. Modern technology solved this problem by making protective gear that in no way detracts from the participant's awareness and coordination.