Muay Thai technique
Muay Thai technique is something that a fighter can only achieve with proper body conditioning and strength training.
It’ll also come in handy as useful motivation to know the different types of Muay Thai techniques. Or, perhaps, more importantly, an interesting Muay Thai technique or two that they can practice, and even use in other disciplines, especially for those who train in other fighting sports as well.
Below are 5 interesting Muay Thai techniques that can be used in Muay Thai and other sports.
1. Switch Kick
The switch kick is both simple and complicated. It’s simple in that it’s basically just a lead leg body kick. It’s complicated in that it’s not exactly as easy to pull off properly.
Often referred to as the “perfect marriage of speed and power”, the switch kick requires a great understanding of proper positioning, technique, and more importantly, when to use it. Because it is a close-range technique, it requires proper timing and fast reflexes to pull off. But, if you can perform it correctly, a single switch can completely change the momentum of a match.
The “switch” in the technique refers to the absurd stance change wherein the lead leg is brought back to the rear as if it were being pulled back like a slingshot.
2. The Clinch
In other disciplines, fighters grapple on the mat. In Muay Thai, fighters grapple while on their feet.
The goal in clinching is to establish a dominant position to land a clean hit.
Straight knees, side knees, and elbows, are very common and effective strikes used in clinching by fighters to gain an advantage.
3. Sok Tad
Muay Thai isn’t referred to as the “art of the eight limbs’ for no reason, and one of those reasons is how devasting an elbow strike can be when done right.
A good example of this is the Sok Tad.
Basically, the Soak Tad is a horizontal elbow strike. It should be simple, except, it isn’t. It’s important to know proper fundamentals, which include learning the technique, balance, and timing, to pull the Sok Tad off successfully in a match.
If timed perfectly, a clean strike can lay any opponent down the mat or open them up for a more devastating attack.
4. Rear Leg Low Kick
In Muay Thai, low kicks are the jab counterpart of kicks. But, just as in punching, we have straights, uppercuts, and more, low kicks have variations too. Case in point, the rear leg low kick.
The rear leg low kick is usually aimed at the opponent’s thighs. The goal is to sweep opponents off of their feet or take them off of their balance.
Conclusion
Before trying to learn these Muay Thai techniques, it’s important to build a solid foundation first.
Take the time to learn the basics of Muay Thai and master them.
Just like in any other martial art and discipline, in Muay Thai, the basics are important. The more you master them, the more solid your foundational knowledge is. This makes you a better and more well-rounded fighter.