Western fighters have primarily concerned themselves with the techniques of boxing and wrestling. However, Thai boxing represents a very different form of fighting that many people find extremely useful. MMA's growing popularity has driven some of this interest, but the sport on its own is still very much alive.
Punching has traditionally not been as central to the world of Thai boxing as it has in popular Western combat sports. However, it does exist. Punches across the chest often helps fighters keep their opponent on his toes. Now, though, fighters integrate jabs and uppercuts, among other punches, in their repertoires.
A strike more typically associated with this fighting style is the elbow. This dangerous attack can use the elbow to cause cuts and contusions that make it more difficult for the opponent to see and react during the match. These come in all directions, although vertical strikes seem to be the strongest. Moreover, they can be used in combination after another strike to increase the element of surprise once the opponent is in a compromised position.
Traditionally, kicks have not taken center stage as they have in certain other martial arts. That doesn't mean that they are completely unheard of, though. Kicks can be used to push an opponent back or to strike the legs, body or even the face. Most people recognize these kicks as belonging to the tradition by the swiveling hips used to deliver them. This augments the power of the kicks. The fighter on the receiving end can block them with the shins or attempt to catch the foot before it makes contact.
The high flying knee that originates from this sport is iconic now and has been featured in action movies due to how flashy it is. It also damages opponents, which is why fighters continue to use it. The jump right before the strike increases its range. Otherwise, fighters may clench and then pull their opponents down to strike them with the knee.
The clench is another essential part of the sport. Fighters are generally allowed to remain in this position, as it allows for certain blows to be exchanged. Fighters can apply clenches from many angles depending on what it happening and their body size and shape compared to the opponent. This can be used to limit the movement of a faster opponent or to slow down the match and allow a fighter to catch his breath.
Thai boxing has been recognized as one of the most powerful forms of fighting for quite some time now. But with the growing popularity of MMA, the general public has become more aware of how it can be integrated into a fighting plan. As it continues to develop and influence Western fighters, new elements and strengths of the form are likely to emerge.
Punching has traditionally not been as central to the world of Thai boxing as it has in popular Western combat sports. However, it does exist. Punches across the chest often helps fighters keep their opponent on his toes. Now, though, fighters integrate jabs and uppercuts, among other punches, in their repertoires.
A strike more typically associated with this fighting style is the elbow. This dangerous attack can use the elbow to cause cuts and contusions that make it more difficult for the opponent to see and react during the match. These come in all directions, although vertical strikes seem to be the strongest. Moreover, they can be used in combination after another strike to increase the element of surprise once the opponent is in a compromised position.
Traditionally, kicks have not taken center stage as they have in certain other martial arts. That doesn't mean that they are completely unheard of, though. Kicks can be used to push an opponent back or to strike the legs, body or even the face. Most people recognize these kicks as belonging to the tradition by the swiveling hips used to deliver them. This augments the power of the kicks. The fighter on the receiving end can block them with the shins or attempt to catch the foot before it makes contact.
The high flying knee that originates from this sport is iconic now and has been featured in action movies due to how flashy it is. It also damages opponents, which is why fighters continue to use it. The jump right before the strike increases its range. Otherwise, fighters may clench and then pull their opponents down to strike them with the knee.
The clench is another essential part of the sport. Fighters are generally allowed to remain in this position, as it allows for certain blows to be exchanged. Fighters can apply clenches from many angles depending on what it happening and their body size and shape compared to the opponent. This can be used to limit the movement of a faster opponent or to slow down the match and allow a fighter to catch his breath.
Thai boxing has been recognized as one of the most powerful forms of fighting for quite some time now. But with the growing popularity of MMA, the general public has become more aware of how it can be integrated into a fighting plan. As it continues to develop and influence Western fighters, new elements and strengths of the form are likely to emerge.
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