United World Muay Thai Association

Introduction to Muay Thai

The martial art of Muay Thai is practiced all over the world, although it is most common in Thailand (where it is the countries national sport) and other south east Asia countries. Although Muay Thai literally means Thai boxing, it is spoken of in Thailand as being the martial art of eight limbs (the shins, knees, elbows and hands). Together, these eight limbs are known as the "na-wa arwud". The head is another part of the body which is included in this, however it is now very rarely allowed within rules to be used (such as head butts). Muay Thai's techniques revolve around these points of the body, and as explained further in the practice/training section of this guide - mainly consist of punching, kicking, kneeing, and clinching.