Muay Thai, or Thai boxing, is one of the most exciting martial arts. This book traces the development of the art from its beginnings to its spread worldwide. The book provides valuable advice on choosing a school, and the etiquette and traditions involved in becoming a student. From the essential Wai Kru (respect to teacher) and Ram Muay (ritual dance), through the basic techniques of punching, elbow, knee and clinching and kicking and on to advanced techniques, this book attempts to answer every question a new student of the art might ask. The book also looks at Muay Thai's effectiveness as a system of self-protection, using the tried and tested methods in use today as a truly awesome contact sport. Also covered are mental and physical preparation for competing in Muay Thai bouts, a summary of the rules, number of rounds and the scoring of bouts.

Author Biography

Author Tony Moore is one of the Western world's foremost authorities on the martial arts of Thailand. He has been taught by some of Thailand's top instructors, including the late Grand Master Samai Messamarn of the Buddhai Swan Institute. Among his many honours are: British Light Middleweight Thai Boxing Champion (retired undefeated 1992), British All-Styles Middleweight Champion (retired undefeated 1992) and Champion of Champions (Hong Kong 1988), the first Westerner to win an Eastern title. In 1991, he was awarded a White Mongkorn, the highest award in Muay Thai. He is chairman of the British Thai Boxing Council, of the technical committees for the British Thai Boxing Council and the British Association of Muay Thai Officials. US consultant Tim Mousel has a Thai-Boxing Instructor Certification from the Ajarn Chai Sirisute, and serves as Houston Branch Director for the Thai Boxing Association of the USA. He has a BA degree in physical education and coaching, and an MSc in sports science.