Have you ever tried Muay Thai? Muay Thai, otherwise known as the art of eight limbs, is an 18th century combat sport that utilizes stand-up striking in addition to clinching methods. It is also becoming an increasingly popular sport for children and adults alike who want to become more physically active.
Across the United States, Canada and Great Britain, many people are enrolling in Muay Thai classes. It can be compared to the yoga madness. Whether it is a self-defense class, a goal to compete in Muay Thai tournaments or to just get some exercise, Muay Thai is becoming one of the biggest trends.
Every Muay Thai competitor or trainee will concede this fact: everyone is a teacher and a student. We’re always learning, and this is something you need to realize when you start.
Here are five Muay Thai training tips for newcomers:
1. Not in Shape? You Will Be
One of the main reasons why so many people are taking up Muay Thai is because they want to get in shape. They avoid the gym, lead a sedentary lifestyle or are overweight.
That said, there is a misconception out there that you need to be in shape – six-pack abs, bulging biceps and the largest calves in the world – to participate. Not so.
For many individuals, they are not in shape when they start out all. That changes, however, the more Muay Thai lessons you take. Like every other form of exercise, the more you do it, the better in shape you will be.
2. You Will Feel Pain at First
Since Muay Thai consists of standing strikes, you will be using your shins a lot. And be prepared: you will feel pain at first after every lesson. But this should never dissuade you from attending the next class, and the next one, and the next one.
It should be noted that you won’t feel broken bones or shattered ankles, but you will likely notice a couple of bruises or slight blistering.
3. Get Good Gear, Not Cheap Stuff
Here is something that every seasoned Muay Thai competitor will say: invest in good gear.
A common mistake that newcomers make is that they tend to select the cheapest gear possible. Unfortunately, this gear won’t do much to protect you or enhance the quality of your lesson. It is always a prudent idea to get the best gear possible.
4. Remember to Regularly Breathe
Like every other sport or strenuous activity out there, when you just begin your lessons, you forget to breathe. This is because you are concentrating solely on the move, not on your breathing. And this isn’t a good idea.
To ensure that you’re able to continue and that you won’t feel flustered, you must always breathe. You need to remind yourself of this at all times.
5. Always Pay Attention to Others
You can learn a lot by paying attention to others. Watching a combat, observing experts shadow box, listening to tricks and tips. There are many ways that you can learn from others to get better at Muay Thai and to make sure that you stick with this sport moving forward.
Going to the gym not your thing? Do you dislike sports? Are you too lazy at home to exercise? Well, if nothing else works, then maybe you should consider Muay Thai. It may be intimidating at first, but the more you partake in this combat sport, the more physically fit you will become. Who knows? Perhaps you will become so good at Muay Thai that you will decide to actually take part in competitions.
Of course, it’s baby steps first. You have to walk before you crawl. Er, reverse that.
