Today's style is: MUAY THAI a form of kickboxing originating in Thailand. Unlike traditional kickboxing, Muay Thai allows low kicks, elbows and knees and is considered among the elite striking arts.

Also known as Thai Boxing or Savate , Muay Thai is the oldest known form of kickboxing dating back to the battlefields of the 15th century during the wars between the Thai (Siamese) and the Burmese.

Today there are more than 65,000 professional Muay Thai fighters in Thailand making it the national sport of the country.

Speed, accuracy and power define Muay Thai. Fighters use kicks as both offensive and defensive weapons, often aiming to strike their opponents in the thighs for maximum impact. Elbow and knee strikes are also powerful techniques used in stand up grappling.

With perfect execution to the head, the hard bone of the elbow can act like the blade of a knife, devastating the opponent and sending him/her to the mat to be pinned-don't worry, fighters are now mandated to wear protective gloves and referees are quick to call a fight if safety becomes an issue.

Just last night, I watched a mixed martial arts fight that featured a number of Muay Thai and mixed martial arts fighters. In particular, one Muay Thai fighter gave the fight of his life and solidified just how effective Muay Thai skills can be.

In the first of five rounds, the fighter had beaten his challenger. His versatility and power was unmatched by the nearly foot taller opponent. His quick kick techniques and repeated power knees to the chest brought the challenger to his knees within two minutes of sparing. No wonder Muay Thai is known as "King of the Ring" in kickboxing circles.

http://www.thaiboxing.com/