Here's How To Learn The Muay Thai Basics

MUAY THAI BASICS MADE EASY: BEGINNER’S GUIDE

By Sean Fagan

Are you looking to get fit and learn a new skill at the same time? Look no further than Muay Thai, the ancient martial art of Thailand. Known for its powerful strikes, grappling techniques, and intense conditioning, Muay Thai is a great way to get your heart pumping and your muscles working. And the best part? Anyone can learn the basics with a little bit of practice and dedication.

Here are some of the basic techniques you can expect to learn in a typical Muay Thai class:

1. Jabs and crosses

The most basic strikes in Muay Thai are jabs and crosses. These punches are thrown with the lead hand (the hand closest to your opponent) and the rear hand (the hand farthest from your opponent), respectively. To throw a jab, extend your lead hand straight out in front of you, keeping your elbow tucked in and your other hand guarding your chin. To throw a cross, pivot your rear foot, shift your weight onto your lead foot, and throw your rear hand in a straight line towards your target.

2. Kicks

In Muay Thai, kicks are just as important as punches. The most common kicks are roundhouse kicks and front kicks. To throw a roundhouse kick, pivot on your lead foot and swing your rear leg in a circular motion, aiming for your opponent's midsection or head. To throw a front kick (also known as a teep), extend your lead leg straight out, aiming for your opponent's torso or face.

3. Knees

Knees are another powerful weapon in Muay Thai. To throw a knee strike, grab your opponent's head or neck with both hands (known as a plum), and thrust your knee upwards towards their midsection or head.

4. Elbows

Finally, Muay Thai is known for its devastating elbow strikes. There are many different kinds of elbow strikes, but the most basic is the horizontal elbow. To throw this strike, pivot on your rear foot and swing your elbow towards your opponent's head or midsection.

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Learning the basics of Muay Thai is essential for anyone interested in the sport. Even if you have no intention of becoming a professional fighter, the techniques you learn in a Muay Thai class can help improve your fitness, coordination, and self-defense skills. Plus, it's a fun and challenging way to get a workout in.

So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start learning the basics of Muay Thai – you won't regret it.