The basic Muay Thai training techniques include punch techniques (jab, straight right/cross, hook and uppercut), elbow techniques (horizontal, diagonal-upwards, diagonal-downwards, uppercut, downward, backward-spinning and flying) and kicking techniques (push kick, roundhouse kick, etc.). The following are some special Muay Thai techniques:
The Clinch
This technique is exclusively used in Muay Thai fights. While combating the fighter applies this technique by holding his opponent either around the neck and head or around the body. It is known as Thai clinch.
To apply the clinch, the fighter has to hold his opponent either around the neck and head or around the body. The fighter also has to press his forearm against his opponent's collar bone while his hands are around the latter's head rather than his neck.
A common clinching technique used in Muay Thai fights is to just tap the head downward then give a throw. The fighter can also throw the opponent to his left in case the latter is using a knee from the right. It can cause the opponent to lose his balance.
The Kru
This is a tough technique. A new fighter takes a lot of training and hard work to learn this technique. The technique is provided by the fighter’s Krue or Thai boxing training. The trainer makes the fighter work hard and learn the technique. It is a tradition for the fighter to express his respect to his trainer through a ritual called Wai Kru.
There are some elements that are part of Muay Thai training techniques. These include:
•Running – A trainee has to run 18 km running per day (around 12 km in the first half and around 6 km in the second half).
•Stretching – The trainee has also to do stretching for around 20-30 minutes. It improves muscular elasticity and reduces the stretch reflex.
•Shadow boxing – This training includes around 20 minutes of shadow boxing. Shadow boxing is usually practiced in front of a mirror.
Muay Thai training takes a lot of hard work. To become a good fighter young people have to go through a lot of physical and mental strain. It takes sheer dedication, commitment, and “never-say-die” attitude that a trainee transforms himself into a sound Muay Thai fighter.
Credit to Shin Chang & Boxing-MuayThai.
