Thai Boxing, also called Muay Thai, is a martial art that uses body parts as weapons, specifically the elbows, fists (hands), feet and knees. Thai Boxing is extremely popular in states such as Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC. Because Thai boxing makes use of these body parts, it is often referred to as the “Art of Eight Limbs”. Thai boxing also makes use of a grappling technique called “the clinch”.

Thai boxing techniques are separated into two major categories. The first category is Mei Mai or the major techniques, and the Luk Mai, the minor techniques. The distinguishing characteristic of all Thai boxing techniques is the fact that they use the entire body. The body is rotated through the hip with every punch or kick thrown. These rotations add power to the strike.

Thai boxing is a full contact body sport that requires a very high level of physical conditioning in order for you to be successful in competition. Many of the training techniques for Thai boxing are rigorous. These include jump rope training, running, weight training, and shadow boxing. Concentration is given to developing the core abdominal muscles, as the emphasis in Thai boxing is on using the full body and rotating from the hips. Training includes large amounts of sparring practice and bag work.

Thai boxing became an important element of the mixed martial arts in the 1990’s. It became obvious that only those trained in Thai boxing could successfully compete against opponents who had a strong training in Muay Thai. In stand up fighting, those who are experienced in Thai boxing have the advantage.

When you are training for the mixed martial arts, it is important to find a MMA school in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC that fits your needs. Many people choose to take up the mixed martial arts as a form of exercise. This can be an exciting alternative to the same old workout at the gym. If this is your goal, choose a mixed martial arts school that offers you that choice. Be sure that they offer classes you want at reasonable times and rates. Be sure to understand the skill level of the class before you begin. Understand that you should be able to train in MMA at your own pace. Be sure that the MMA school you are interested in offers you that ability.

If you want to increase the level of your training and ultimately decide to go further and compete in the mixed martial arts, be sure that the MMA school you are part of can help you do that safely. You should feel comfortable with the level of supervision at the school during sparring. You should have confidence in the instructors and other personnel who are there helping you train.

Thai boxing helps you develop physically as a competitor and a martial artist, but it can also help you develop emotionally and psychologically. A mixed martial artist studying Thai boxing will learn discipline and perseverance, and he will learn to tolerate pain. These are important attributes for a mixed martial arts fighter. 

You can try out Lloyd Irvin’s, Mixed Martial Arts Academies if you’re interested in learning Thai Boxing. They offer a 30 day free trial program on any of the mixed martial arts programs, and have locations in the Maryland, Virginia, Washington DC area.