The practice of variousforms of martial arts across Southeast Asia, and the whole of Asia for that matter, goes back through past centuries. Muay Thai for its part has been in existence since ancient times with influences that could be traced back to Muay Boran. The former is a descendant of the latter which is an older ancient boxing style.


Muay Boran which was used by Siamese soldiers in wars did not employ the use of any weapon but bare limbs. It was used to support the arm-based Krabi Krabong style of combat. With remarkable influences from Aditha, a boxing arts of Indian origin similar to Muay Thai and Muay Boran combined, Thai boxing aficionados also see very similar movements between Muay Thai and Shaolin Kung fu, a martial art of Chinese origin.
Muay Boran is further divided into various styles of combats. A famous saying goes, "Punch Korat, Wit lopburi, Posture Chaiya, Faster Thasao," best describes each one.


Muay Korat, from the northeast for example, emphasized strength. One of its techniques called "Throwing Buffalo Punch" could send the horned animal sprawling to the ground with just but one blow.
The strong points of Muay Lopburi from the center region were the straight and counter punches that were best emphasized in the movements.


Muay Chaiya of the southerners emphasized more on posture and defense, as well as the use of elbows and knees.
The northerners Muay Pra Nakorn emphasized on speed, particularly in the kicks. It earned the "Ling Lom", or windy monkey or Loris tag because of its use of faster speed.

Esteemed by the Thai Royalty of the past eras to the present, muay had paved itsway into palaces. At times the more excellent muay practitioners were asked to stay in the royal palace not only to provide needed security for the king but also to impart the skill to the royal household staffs, the king's personal guards, the princes and royal soldiers.


Muay Thai which used to entertain kings through centuries has gradually become very popular and has eventually invaded the international sport arena. It has developed into a sport in which two fighting boxers exchange kicks, punches, elbowing, and mental techniques amidst the shouts and cheers of very expectant spectators. Thai boxing has also become a common but important fixture that is integrated into local festivals and celebrations, including temple related ones.