Written By: Anmol Londhe | Published : October 15, 2014 1:25 PM IST
In our previous article on martial arts, we spoke about how martial arts aids in weight loss. In this article, martial arts expert Anmol Londhe tells us about Muay Thai and its various health benefits.
Originating in Thailand, Muay Thai is now popular all over the globe. The word Muay means 'to bind together'. It is one of the best forms of self-defence. This combat sport uses stand-up striking along with various clinch techniques. It is also known as 'the art of eight limbs' because it is characterised by the combined use of fists, elbows, knees and shin. Its prowess came under the limelight when practitioners of Muay Thai defeated notable practitioners of other martial arts.
This sport strengthens the whole body. Your body won t just look good but will also be fighting-fit. It can be compared to kick-boxing in which fists and kicks are used to land a strike. Muay Thai takes it a step further by introducing the use of elbows, knees along with fists and kicks to strike. It also engages the clinching techniques which enables one to have a firm grip and control over the opponent before landing a strike. Almost every part of the body is considered as a fair target and any part of the body except the head can be used to strike an opponent.
Health benefits of Muay Thai
Being both aerobic and anaerobic in nature, Muay Thai training puts a lot of stress on your cardiopulmonary systems resulting in an improved heart rate. Increased lung capacity, controlled blood pressure, strong bones, glowing skin, good immunity, ideal body mass index (BMI) and good appetite are the primary health benefits of the sport.
Every muscle in your lower body will benefit from the kicks and footwork drills of the sport. It develops muscle endurance and strengthens your core.
This sport is also very beneficial for your mental health. It s a good source of venting out that anger or frustration or any negative factor one is carrying, out on a punching bag. Those with low self-confidence can also benefit from this Thai martial art as it will instill confidence in them.
Who can perform Muay Thai
Muay Thai training can be customised to fit everyone s criteria. Everyone from the fittest person on the planet to the most unfit person can practise this sport. There have been handicapped people who have mastered the art, so there is no specific body type one needs to have to practise the sport.
If someone is out of shape, there is nothing better one can do than training in Muay Thai and get back in proper shape. It is meant for all age groups. While kids and elders focus more on the fun element of the sport, everyone else practises the most rugged version of it to stay fit and healthy.
Precautions
Muay Thai should be avoided by pregnant women and people with chronic injuries. Also, make sure you consult your healthcare professional before beginning the sport and let your coach know about any injury or physical condition prior to the practice.
Training routine
People who are doing it for staying fit should perform 3 to 4 sessions a week for 1 to 2 hours. The session should include warming up and cooling down. People focusing on fat loss should try and do at least five sessions a week for 1 to 2 hours per session. They can start with fewer sessions also and slowly increase their number. Muay Thai fighters have to do 10 to 11 sessions a week for 2 to 3 hours per session. Sessions can go up to 15 to 16 a week for a minimum of 1 to 3 months prior to the tournament.
Image source: Getty Images
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