The Thai Martial Art of Muay Thai is extremely popular and considered one of the most effective striking styles in Mixed Martial Arts. Here’s just 5 reasons why you should give it a go!
Muay Thai is the combat sport of Thailand and uses stand-up striking techniques as well as clinching and sweeps. It is known as “The Art of 8 Limbs” because of it’s combined use of fists, elbows, knees and shines. To reach a high level in Muay Thai, one must have incredible physical and mental discipline but here are 5 reasons why you should give it a try!
- Get into great shape
Muay Thai involves a lot of cardio. Often sessions are only 1 hour long but the kicks a lone with be sure to bring those abs to the surface. Muay Thai sessions encompass a full body work out: punching, elbows & clinching targeting the upper body, whiles knees and kicking target the core and lower body. Every class will engage your entire body, improving your strength and endurance every session leaving you with washboard abs in no time.
- Learn how to defend yourself
In the Art of 8 Limbs, strikes can come at all angles. Repetitive drilling etches defensive reactions into muscle memory and constant exposure to reacting under pressure teaches you the most efficient way to utilise ones energy. - Stress Relief
A high intensity Muay Thai session is an amazing way to blow off some steam. Increasing the heart rates increases the flow of fresh blood to the brain not to mention punching and kicking is a great way to release pent up emotions. - Part of a Team
Whether you are sociable during class or only attend to get your punches in, you most likely train in pairs. Regardless of your who you are, fellow team mates will support your Muay Thai journey, give you feedback and stand in as sparring partners.
- You will feel more confident
If pushing past your capabilities on a regular basis doesn’t make you feel good about yourself, we aren’t sure what will. All these points combined will leave you feeling accomplished and involved everyday: Physically look and feel amazing, know you can be safe in unideal circumstances, feel more at peace and be part of a driven and supportive community that share the common goal of self development. How can you not feel great?
Credit: Micheal Dacuno, Personal Trainer, Muay Thai Coach & Fighter @ Versus Performance, 5th Floor, Workington Tower, 78-80 Bonham Strand
