#131 - Sayin I got through it was a stretch!

Kyle is a self proclaimed warrior-poet and lives the life! He is a praticuar of Mauy Thai style of martial Arts, an award winning author, Dad and family man. It was a great time to sit and chat with him a bit. And below is an article around the hostory of Mauy Thai.

Mentions:

Kyle - https://kmwoodsauthor.com/

Highspeed Daddy - https://www.highspeeddaddy.com/?rfsn=7178368.317ce6

Live Rishi - USe the code "TABLE50" and get 50% off your entire order - https://liverishi.com/

Me - https://berawpodcast.com/

'til next time!

Muay Thai, also known as "The Art of Eight Limbs," is a traditional martial art and combat sport that originates from Thailand. Its history is deeply intertwined with the country's culture, religion, and military practices, spanning over centuries of evolution and refinement.

The origins of Muay Thai can be traced back to ancient Thailand, where it developed as a form of hand-to-hand combat for self-defense and battlefield tactics. Initially, it was a practical skill employed by Thai soldiers to protect their kingdom from invading forces. Over time, it became an integral part of Thai culture and society, with its techniques and strategies being passed down through generations.

The earliest forms of Muay Thai were not only used in warfare but also as a form of entertainment. In the 16th century, the sport started gaining popularity as a competitive spectacle during festivals and celebrations. These events would often feature matches where fighters used various strikes, clinches, and grapples to showcase their skills and prowess. The fighters would wrap their hands in hemp ropes and eventually, this evolved into the use of cotton cords and later, padded gloves.

By the 18th century, the sport had become more formalized, and specific rules and regulations were established to govern the matches. King Prachao Sua (also known as King Tiger), who ruled in the mid-18th century, was a notable patron of Muay Thai and played a pivotal role in shaping its development. He even trained in the art himself and encouraged his soldiers to do the same, solidifying Muay Thai's place in Thai society.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Muay Thai underwent further transformation. Western-style boxing was introduced to Thailand, leading to the integration of Western boxing techniques into Muay Thai. This era also marked the transition from informal open-air arenas to more structured and regulated stadiums, where the sport could be practiced and enjoyed by a wider audience.

Muay Thai's global recognition began to grow during the 20th century as Thai fighters started competing in international competitions. Its reputation as a highly effective and dynamic striking art attracted practitioners from around the world who sought to learn its techniques for self-defense, fitness, and sport. The sport's international reach expanded even further when it was included in the inaugural Asian Games in 1951.

In recent decades, Muay Thai has gained prominence in the realm of mixed martial arts (MMA), with many MMA fighters incorporating its techniques into their arsenal. The sport's popularity has also led to the establishment of numerous training camps, schools, and academies both in Thailand and abroad.

Today, Muay Thai stands as a symbol of Thailand's rich cultural heritage and remains an integral part of the country's identity. It continues to thrive as a competitive sport, a means of self-defense, and a form of fitness training that resonates with people worldwide. The history of Muay Thai reflects the evolution of a practical combat art into a revered cultural tradition and a global martial discipline, demonstrating its enduring appeal and significance.