Muay Thai evolution Thailand. The evolution of Muay Thai is interwoven within the history of Thailand and has become an important element of Thai tradition and culture.
The Thai’s are a gentle peace-loving people, however, for centuries they had to defend themselves and their land from aggressive neighbours. To do this, they created a form of close, hand-to-hand combat using fists, feet, knees, elbows and weapons that is best suited for the kind of rough-terrain and jungle battles they were fighting. Over time it became a rite of passage for Thai men to take up training in this martial art called, Muay Thai.
Muay Thai Tradition
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Lumpinee Stadium
Children and Muay Thai
The fact that children as young as five and six years old begin their careers in such a violent sport has obviously been a source of controversy. Children make their way to Muay Thai gyms for a variety of reasons. And though it sparks a serious human rights debate, Muay Thai“ is a two-sided coin in Thai society.
For these kids, it could mean an opportunity to flip their life’s crisis into a chance,” says Chira Wichaisuthikul, a Thai film-maker whose documentary, Lumpinee, explores the world and significance of Muay Thai in a group of children’s lives.
Some children come to the camps to escape a life of homelessness, drug addiction, and drifting. Others commit early purely for the love of the sport. As a result, boxing camps function as large family units in which coaches often fill the roles of absent fathers and daily activities are executed communally.
Lumpinee Documentary Film – Official Trailer
Muay Thai Today
Currently one of the best Muay Thai fighters, Petboonchu.
Some of the best Muay Thai photos available.
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