Get the Facts Muay Thai vs Thai Boxing Explained Simply

Thai Boxing vs Muay Thai, while it sounds like two different sports, right? But in reality, these terms are often used interchangeably. Nevertheless, there is more to it. Both Muay Thai and Thai boxing are deeply rooted in Thai culture. These combat techniques are a symbol of discipline, strategy, and strength. ‘Muay Thai’ is simply the name derived from the Thai language, while ‘Thai boxing’ is its English translation. There is no difference in their rules or techniques. When you look up Muay Thai vs Thai boxing, you will end up with the same results: the same combat sport.

Muay Thai, commonly known as Thai boxing, is a national sport of Thailand. It is considered one of the most prestigious martial arts in the world. Traditional Thai boxing, known as the “Art of Eight Limbs,” is a mix of punches, kicks, elbows, and knees, making it one of the most versatile striking martial arts. Whereas boxing, being one of the most strategic combat sports, is often referred to as the “Sweet Science.” It is a game of punches, head movements, and footwork. At Wicked Boxing, you can get all the gear you need to combat traditional Thai boxing.

So, what is Thai Boxing?

Being a traditional Thai martial art, it has been practiced for centuries. In the earlier days, it was essentially a battlefield combat system, later transformed into a modern sport and self-defense sport. Now, it is a common MMA sport, self-defense, and general fitness practice.

What Makes Muay Thai Unique

The full-body combat style of traditional Thai boxing/Muay Thai is used in offense and defense. Boxers usually use a combination of strikes, kicks, clinches, and sweeps, unlike traditional boxing, which focuses solely on punches. The clinch is a standing grappling technique, allowing fighters to control their opponent while delivering knee strikes or devastating sweeps. Delivery of strong, powerful kicks is the core element of Muay Thai.

A defining feature of traditional Thai boxing is conditioning, where the fighters train to strengthen their shin muscles, increase resilience, and develop enormous power. To boost strength, time, and endurance, this training involves pad work, bag drills, and sparring.

The Core of the Art: Muay Thai Fighting Styles and Techniques

Techniques Used in Muay Thai

• Punches (Chok): similar to traditional boxing, but a combination of elbow strokes and kicks for more effect
• Elbows (Sok): usually employed for close-range, powerful strikes
• Kicks (Te): high, low, and push kicks using the shins, not the feet, for increased impact
• Knees (Khao): powerful knee strikes in the clinch targeting the head or the body
• Clinch and Sweeps: aim at disrupting the opponent’s balance and position

Muay Thai Fighting Styles

Traditional Thai boxing is marked by different fighting styles.

• Muay Femur (the technician): uses strong, repeated roundhouse kicks to dismantle the body and legs of an opponent.
• Muay Khao (The knee fighter): Muay Thai fighting style where the fighter excels in clinch work and knee strikes
• Muay Mat (the puncher): it uses aggressive and heavy punches to throw the opponent off guard
• Muay Tae (the kicker): relies on powerful roundhouse kicks to dominate range
• Muay Bouk (the pressure fighter): This Muay Thai fighting style is where an aggressive fighter is in constant forward motion, throwing jabs while messing with the pace.

Difference Between Muay Thai and Boxing Gloves

While they look similar, there are some key differences between Muay Thai and boxing gloves since both have different purposes. Muay Thai gloves are more adaptable, providing greater wrist and grip flexibility to support the fundamental Muay Thai movements like the elbow strikes, catching kicks, and clinching. Contrary to this, boxing gloves are rather stiff and heavily padded around the knuckles for minimal impact on the hand while delivering powerful punches. Traditional Thai boxing gloves include more evenly distributed padding to facilitate both offensive and defensive techniques, such as blocking kicks. At Wicked Boxing, you can acquire top-quality gear and gloves for traditional Thai boxing. So, what are you waiting for? Visit Wicket Boxing to level up your game!

Thai Boxing Rules

Thai boxing rules (or the traditional Thai boxing rules) are made to cater to the distinct nature of the combat.

• Rounds: Traditional Thai boxing has 5 rounds, each of 3 minutes
• Scoring System: Clean strikes get the most score. An impactful kick to the body or a sweep scores higher than a punch. Aggression and ring control are also scored.
• The Clinch: The clinch is not instantly broken, as in boxing. For a considerable amount of time, fighters are permitted to land strikes and work for positions.
• Attire: Traditional Thai boxing fighters follow a proper attire; gloves, shorts, and Mongkol (a sacred headband).

Boxing vs Muay Thai: Which is Better

So, boxing vs Muay Thai: which is better lies in multiple factors. For self-defense, traditional Thai boxing is more effective due to its versatile striking options. The same goes for competitive fighting, where traditional Thai boxing is superior. For MMA, Muay Thai is a better option since it has more striking technique options. Boxing is above traditional Thai boxing in hand-striking techniques and defense movements. Both the combat systems are excellent for fitness, but traditional Thai boxing offers a full-body workout.

Helpful Tips About Muay Thai Vs Thai Boxing

1.  Find a reputable gym

2.  Focus on the fundamentals

3.  Train clinch regularly

4.  Condition your body

5.  Choose your style

6.  Invest in quality gear

7.  Respect the tradition

Conclusion

To conclude, Muay Thai vs Thai boxing are simply flip sides of the same coin. Both embody a centuries-old martial art that has developed into a popular sport throughout the world, valued for its strength and accuracy. Boxing usually has straightforward techniques, while traditional Thai boxing is the gold standard for full-body engagement and self-defense. Prepare yourself with Wicked Boxing, enter the ring, and discover the authentic essence of traditional Thai boxing, the art that epitomizes fortitude, dignity, and tenacity.