Muay Thai

Muay Thai also know as the art of eight limbs, originated in Thailand. Muay Thai was original called Muay Boran, which means ancient boxing, Muay Boran later broke up into many different types of martial arts including Muay Korat which emphasized strength, Muay Lopburi emphasized movements, Muay Chaiya emphasized posture, Muay Pra Nakorn emphasized speed, and the more famous Muay Thai. The practice of Muay Thai was kept up largely by Buddhist monks who were the keepers and teachers of all arts. As every Thai man is compelled to live as a monk at least once in his life the art grew in popularity among common people. As well as continuing to function as a practical fighting technique for use in actual warfare, Muay Thai became a sport in which the exponents fought in front of spectators. This kind of muay contests gradually became an integral part of local festivals and celebrations, especially those held at temples.