Muay Thai, most commonly known as Thai Boxing, is the national sport of Thailand. With deep roots in the medieval fields that the Siamese army battled on, it has evolved into a world-renowned striking art used by champions of the mixed martial arts ring. Muay Thai is also referred to as "The Art of the Eight Limbs” because it proficiently utilizes the fighter’s hands, elbows, knees and shins. A practitioner of Muay Thai, or "nak muay,” thus executes strikes using eight points of contact as opposed to only two points of contact (fists) used in Western boxing or four points of contact (fists and feet) used in other martial arts.
Seasoned Muay Thai fighters are not only efficient in their execution of attacks but also have a distinct sense of rhythm to their delivery of strikes. Their grace is attuned by the traditional use of pipe and drums as musical accompaniments to matches. In a symbolic payment of respect to each other and to trainers, fighters also dance the Ram Muay before each fight.
Although Thai Boxing can place significant strain on one’s body and mind, it has become relatively safe with the development of sophisticated pad training that was designed to maintain fighters’ health between competitions. Thai training methods that are used at BETA Academy develop one’s devastating power, increase speed and enhance cardiovascular endurance.
ABOUT THE BETA THAI BOXING PROGRAM
BETA Academy has developed a curriculum that propels students towards their pinnacle of self-defense aptitude, physical condition and mental discipline. Students can expect to take part in strenuous exercises that improve their mental and physical capacities while developing their Thai Boxing skills in a fun and safe environment.
Our program is designed so that everyone, regardless of size, gender or age, can benefit from the study of Muay Thai. We are dedicated to spreading the Thai culture and art of Muay Thai in the DC Metropolitan area. In addition to learning how to effectively defend themselves, students also develop and improve:
▪ speed, strength and agility;
▪ self-discipline;
▪ physical and mental endurance, and;
▪ self-confidence.
While Thai Boxing serves as the core of our curriculum, BETA endeavors to prepare its students for any self-defense situation that they may encounter. Knowing that the large majority of physical confrontations are taken to the ground, we have incorporated elements of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, Wrestling, and Sombo into our unique and effective program.
To learn about our free, one week trial offer, contact us.
BETA Academy’s Muay Thai Competition Team
BETA Academy’s Thai Boxing program is structured so that everyone can learn this art. However, we also offer a separate program for students who have competed or have aspirations to compete in Muay Thai. The training sessions of our Muay Thai Competition Team are both physically and mentally demanding and include:
▪ sparring and clinching
▪ intense, sport- specific conditioning exercises, and;
▪ advanced technical drilling.
Members of this team train as if they are preparing for a Muay That fight. However, fighting in the ring is not a requirement of becoming part of this team. Due to the intense level of training, students must either be invited or possess at least one year of previous experience in order to participate in these sessions. For more information about joining BETA’s Muay Thai Competition team, please contact Khun Kru Nakapan directly.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THAI BOXING
- What is the difference between Muay Thai and Thai Boxing?
There is no difference between Muay Thai and Thai Boxing. Thai Boxing is the literal English translation for Muay Thai. Both terms are used interchangeably when referring to this ancient, yet continually evolving martial art.
- Does Thai Boxing require a uniform?
Our uniform consists of shorts and a T-shirt. New students need only wear comfortable shorts and shirt. Uniforms can be purchased online or at the academy store.
- When can I wear the classical Muay Thai shorts?
At BETA Academy, Muay Thai shorts are considered to be a badge of honor and are only worn by advanced students (who have obtained a red belt or above) or by students who are members of the Muay Thai Competition Team.
- If I become a member of the Muay Thai Competition Team, do I need to fight?
Members of the Muay Thai Competition Team are absolutely not expected or required to fight. You do not have to enter the Muay Thai ring in order to train like a fighter.
- Do I need to buy my own Thai Boxing equipment?
Equipment including punching bags, boxing gloves, shin guards, focus mitts, and Thai pads are all supplied at BETA Academy. Although we do our best to keep our equipment as clean as possible, serious students are encouraged to purchase their own equipment. To purchase Thai Boxing equipment, visit our onlinee store.
- Does Muay Thai have a belt system?
Traditionally, Muay Thai does not have a belt ranking system however, at BETA Academy, we have developed a unique progression system that allows students to track their advancement in the art. Our 15 Level Curriculum is designed to take a student with no knowledge of Thai Boxing to a level where he or she can proficiently execute techniques and confidently instruct others in all aspects of Muay Thai.
- What if I have trained Thai Boxing before?
All students are encouraged to start at the Level I beginner level where one of instructors will closely observe and assess your skill level. Students with prior experience in Thai Boxing will be placed in the appropriate class level.
- How often should I train Thai Boxing?
Thai Boxing is a complex art and students are encouraged to train a minimum of two hours per week.