The science of eight limbs
Muay Thai is the martial art and national sport of Thailand. It is called “the science of eight limbs” because you strike with fists, elbows, knees and feet: eight natural weapons. It is regarded as one of the most effective striking arts in the world, so much so that modern MMA has adopted most of its stand-up game.
Techniques
- Legs: the roundhouse kick delivered with the shin, the front push kick (teep) to keep distance.
- Hands: straights, hooks and uppercuts, in combination.
- Elbows and knees: straight, circular and very close-range strikes, including in the clinch, the standing grapple used to control the opponent’s neck and arms.
How we train it
- Fundamentals: guard, footwork, the basic strikes and their combinations.
- Pad work (pao) and heavy bag: power, rhythm, endurance.
- Conditioning: breathing, physical and mental toughness, shins and body used to contact.
- Clinch: control, off-balancing, knee strikes.
- Controlled sparring with protective gear, at an intensity suited to each person’s level.
Its place in the martial path
In the Black Bull programme Muay Thai is a school of striking and conditioning rather than competition training: it teaches you to hit hard, hold striking range and use elbows and knees in the clinch, in continuity with Jeet Kune Do and Silat. Anyone interested in the sporting side can talk to the master.
Who it is for
Anyone looking for an intense, complete workout and anyone who wants to make their striking more solid. No previous experience is required.
When and where
Muay Thai is part of the adult class (13+) and is integrated into the Monday evening Jeet Kune Do lesson, 7:00 to 9:00 pm, at the Liceo Bagatta in Desenzano del Garda. It is included in the adult class membership. The first two trial lessons are free.