Muay Thai (Thai Boxing)

Muay Thai (Thai Boxing) is regarded Thailand’s national sport. Kawila Boxing Stadium in Chiang Mai hosts local Muay Thai fights every Friday beginning at 8:00 p.m. There are a few Thai Boxing Camps in Chiang Mai catering to both Thais and foreigners. Beginners as well as advanced courses are available at daily or monthly rates.

Nak Muay (Thai boxer) has five ways to bring the pain: foot thrust, kick, knee, elbow and the fist. These can act as weapons or as armor, depending on the situation of the match. It takes years to master 15 major and 15 minor tactics. While boxing has been known for its showmanship Thai boxers aspire to be discipline and modest.

Muay Thai connects many threads of folk culture: play, music, gambling, dance and respect for teachers, not to mention amulets, aromatherapy and the army. Before entering the ring boxers request permission and protection from the spirits in their corner. Before coming into a match, boxers will wai (bow with folded hands) and may even stroke the top rope reciting prayers.

Before each bout, boxers perform the “wai khru ram muay” in homage to their teacher’s past and present. The performance also serves a practical purpose by warming up the boxer and getting him used to his surrounding in the ring, checking the ropes and floor for abnormalities and using footwork he may later use in the fight.

Kawila Boxing Stadium not far from Narawat Bridge, hosts local Muay Thai fights every Friday beginning at 8:00 p.m. Ten bouts are scheduled, ranging from young debutant fighters to local champions, and locals vs. foreigners. The bigger fights are later in the evening. Entry is 400 baht.

Lanna Muay Thai Boxing Camp better known in Thailand as “Kiat Busaba”, is a professional boxing camp in Chiang Mai. Owned and managed as a family concern and considered one of the best Northern Muay Thai Training centers.

Siam Number One Thai Boxing Club provides training opportunities on every level for people at any age. The teachers are all professional or ex-professional with a long history and great experience in Muay Thai.