muay thai kickboxing
Mata-Leao Combat Sports MUAY THAI KICKBOXING PROGRAM –
Developed in Thailand, Muay Thai Kickboxing is the essential art in our stand-up/ striking training curriculum. Also known as the “Art of Eight Limbs,” Muay Thai utilizes punches, kicks, elbows, and knees as their main wepons and is known for its overwhelming and devestating striking power.
Our Portland Thai boxing classes are based on the traditional as well as the modern fundamentals of Tahiland’s national sport. The classes are high intensity and implement techniques in shadow boxing, heavy bag work, focus mitts, Thai pads, conditioning, and light contact sparring as the basis of your training workout. Students learn how to use footwork, punching and kicking techniques with precise mechanics. They are taught how to effectively block, evade and strike their opponent with proper form. The use of knees and elbows as essential weapons are also explained in detail. Along with the fundamentals of proper technique, the use of speed and power are taught to aid in the delivery of devastating strikes.
As you advance in your training, you will develop a solid base of Muay Thai Kickboxing techniques. This will also lead to a well conditioned and strong body, one of the key elements to proper training! Once you have aquired this strong base of Muay Thai Kickboxing you will be able to develop more advanced techniques and strategies.
Although high intensive, the classes have a friendly and motivating atmosphere. We believe this to be another strong key element to help you progress both physically and mentally in this highly demanding martial art. Safety is a top priority at Mata-Leao Combat Sports and proper control is emphasized during all of our training.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THAI BOXING
What is the difference between Muay Thai and Thai Boxing?
The is no difference between Muay Thai Kickboxing and Thai Boxing. Thai boxing is just another way to say it in the english language to associate with the more common english term of kickboxing. Both terms share the same definition representing Thailand’s national sport of kickboxing.
American Kickboxing also referred to as Full-Contact Kickboxing or American Full Contact Karate is sanctioned by the International Kickboxing Federation (IKF) and recognized as the North American Kickboxing. Similar to the sport of Thai Boxing, it has quite distinct differences in the rules of the sport its self. In American Kickboxing you are not allowed to puch or kick above the waist very contrary to Muay Thai’s devestating leg kick attacks. The use of elbows and knees are also forbidden, probably the biggest difference between the two sports. The use of the shins is seldomy forbidden as well. Bouts are usually 3-12 rounds (lastin 2-3 minutes each) for amature and professional bouts, unlike Muay Thai’s shorter 3-5 3-minute rounds.
Our Portland Thai Boxing classes require that you wear a comfortable t-shirt and shorts to begin participating. Once you have started the program you will be adviced to equipe a groin protector, hand wraps, and mouth piece for your own protection. Although we do everything as possible to train as smart as possible at Mata-Leao Combat Sports, accidents do happen. You can never be too careful in the world of combat sports. You can purchase all of these in our gym store, as well as gym t-shirt and traditional Thai Boxing shorts
One of our most popular questions. Equipment such as Boxing gloves, Thai Pads, Shin Pads, Focus Mitts, and Punching Bags are all supplied at Mata-Leao Combat Sports facility. Although we do our best to keep our equipment clean, serious students are encouraged to buy their own equipment. You can purchase all of your neccessary Muay Thai Kickboxing equipment in our gym store.
Do I need to be in shape to train Muay Thai Kickboxing?
If for some reason, you are questioning where you are at, as far as your physical ability… You don’t need to worry. At Mata-Leao Combat Sports we all started in bad shape at one point or another in our lives. We take great considiration to your physical conditioning, wether you are a complete beginner or a professional athlete. We take great pride in having our students come back the next day feeling stronger .
What if I trained Thai Boxing before?
All students are encouraged to take our beginner courses in our curriculum. Our instructors will evaluate your skills closely and decide if you are ready to take on the more advanced classes.
If I join the Portland Muay Thai Kickboxing Competition Team, do I have to fight?
Being on the Portland Muay Thai Kickboxing Competition Team does not mean that you have to fight. Many of our students are a part of the Competition Team to support our fighters and to train like a fighter. Although we will never force you to fight, at MLCS we will always encourage you to exploit your talents.
How often should I train Thai Boxing?
Muay Thai Kickboxing is a technical and complex art. Students are encouraged to train a minimum of two hours per week.
