Muay Boran, meaning ancient boxing, is the umbrella term for the traditional fighting arts that came before modern Muay Thai. Regional styles such as Muay Chaiya, Muay Korat and Muay Lopburi each had their own stances and techniques. Explore their history, methods and legacy here, starting with our complete guide to Muay Boran.
One of the more mysterious forms of Muay Boran is Muay Tha Sao. This is an ancient martial art based in the Northern region of Thailand. Its abilities have been closely guarded as a family secret for centuries. Muay Tha Sao, which translates to Monkey Feet Boxing, moves have only been passed down by approved…
Muay Lopburi is Thailand’s oldest form of Muay Thai with over a thousand years of history. It is one of the four styles of Muay Boran and by far the most ancient. It even shares relations with monkeys and one of the avatars of Vishnu. Muay Boran is the name given to the various forms…
Muay Korat is an archaic Thai martial art. It is one of the forms of Muay Boran, which is the term used to refer to Muay Thai before it was given formalized universal rules. Muay Korat is easily recognizable with its wrapped forearms, heavy punches, and tree kicking. Before there was Muay Thai, conquering audiences…
Muay Chaiya is a martial art which originates from the southern region of Thailand. It focuses on defense and countering. It is one of the forms of Muay Boran, the precursor to Muay Thai. The deadly moves in Muay Chaiya were developed by a Buddhist monk to tame wild elephants and was even used by…
Before the sport of Muay Thai that we see across the world today, before well-known sports brands like Fairtex and Yokkao rose to prominence, before the great champions of Saenchai P.K. Saenchai, Nokweed Davy and Namsaknoi Yudthagarngamtorn there was Muay Boran. Muay Boran which translates to “ancient boxing” is a broad defining term used to describe…
