Muay ThaiThe development of Muay Thai
saw the transformation of the human body into a
multifaceted weapon inspired by the weapons
common to the time. The shin became the
staff of the pike, used to block and strike. The
arms became the raised twin swords of defense.
The fist functioned as the jabbing tip of the
spear. The elbow developed into the battle axe,
used to smash and to crush. The knee, too, axed
its way through enemy’s defenses. Finally, there
was the transformation of the flashing foot into
pike, arrow, and knife. As each part of the body
became a weapon unto itself, a new close-combat
fighting skill called Muay Thai was born. Since its
initial development, Muay Thai has changed in
many ways. It is now a modern sport, rather than
a battlefield skill. But in its heart are
carried old traditions and an ancient fighting
spirit. |
