Developed in the battlefields of Thailand during a time of warfare in Southeast Asia, “Muay Thai” or “Thai Boxing” incorporates hands, elbows, knees, and shins to turn the entire body into a weapon.  These eight points of contact are why Muay Thai is also referred to as the “Art of Eight Limbs” or the “Science of Eight Limbs”.

The true history of Muay Thai is a bit scattered as there are many different historical theories about Muay Thai’s origin. Much of the documented history of Muay Thai was lost in the 14^th century when the Burmese people attacked the temples and depositories of knowledge held in Ayutthaya, Siam’s capital city in Thailand.

One theory of how Muay Thai came to be is that the Thai people needed an effective way to defend themselves, their land, and their people from rampant invasion threats from neighboring countries.  Using the entire body to mimic close-combat weapons of war, hands became the sword and dagger; forearms and shins became the armor; elbows were the hammer or mace; legs and knees were the axe and staff.

Soldiers continued to define and refine the techniques and tactics of Muay Thai during battles against invaders.  Muay Thai redefined warfare, making a fighter always ready for battle.

When young men returned from war, they engaged in Muay Thai matches for sport.  Villages would rally support for their local fighters.  In the 1920’s, foreigners were invited to compete for sport and boxing techniques were incorporated.

In the 1930’s, the first formal rules and regulations of Muay Thai were created and introduced to sport Muay Thai. Weight divisions were introduced based on international boxing guidelines and boxing gloves replaced hemp rope bindings.  Training camps were created across the country, and the sport of Muay Thai began to thrive.

Muay Thai is now recognized and practiced worldwide. In 2016, Muay Thai was given provisional status by the International Olympic Committee.