WAI KHRU

Muaythai has been practiced by Thai people for hundreds of years.  The traditions were passed down through generations as with most ancient self defense methods.

One of the oldest traditions that is still in practice today is the pre fight ceremony, called “Wai Khru” in which fighters pay respect to their teachers, mentors or parents and their opponents.  Fighters will display their techniques while performing this ritual. Some fighters usually “seal the ring” by circling three times before the begin Wai Khru. For some fighters this is another way of warm up and the perfect opportunity to study their opponents, while for others, Wai Khru represents deep spiritual beliefs to prepare their mind and body for the competition.

Traditional instrumental music is normally played live by a group of Thai instrumentalists referred to as “Wong Pee Glong”.  The music is played during each round of the fights, except during the breaks in between rounds.  The music commences with a slow tempo and accelerates towards the end of the rounds and will stop when the fight is stopped and plays quicker when the fight is faster. This separates and defines Muaythai from any other Ring sport, and clearly exhibits Muaythai’s more spiritual and cultural aspects as a ring sport.

There are usually 4 musicians, each with their own instruments: Pee Java (Javanese Oboe), Glong Kaek (A pair of Thai drums play by 2 musicians) and Ching (Small Thai Cymbals).  The melody was uniquely created and is performed specifically for Muaythai. 

Every fighter also wears a traditional headband, called ‘Mongkol’ and an armband, called “Prajiad” on their biceps, a tradition that was carried on since the beginning of Muaythai history.  It is believed to bring good luck to the competition.

These traditions have unique characteristics and are used to differentiate Muaythai from other martial arts.

SKILLS

Muaythai, considered by many as the most exciting and dynamic ring sport around, incorporates the use of all eight weapons of the human body; the fists, knees, elbows and feet.

Safety is the most important aspect of Muaythai.  Every boxer will be given a boxer’s book and a medical examination prior to and after every fight.  The weigh-in process for all boxers will take place before the fight, for all 14 strict weight divisions.  During the competition, boxers must wear protective equipment consisting of head guard, mouth guard, chest guard, elbow guard, gloves, hand wraps, groin guard and shin guards.

Referees in Muaythai must meet strict criteria and undergo annual tests to keep up their knowledge and skills.  There are 5 judges for each fight in order to score both offensive and defensive point decisions.  Bouts are divided into 4 rounds of 2 minutes per round with 1 minute breaks between rounds.

Muaythai has brought athletes together from around the world regardless of race, culture or religion for friendly international contests.   Friendship plays a big part in our sport, especially taking physical aspects into consideration.  This can be seen from boxers who “Wai”, a Thai way of greeting, and shake hands with their opponents in the opposite corner as part of the rules.

Muaythai includes many aspects yet stands as a singular sport with a proud tradition and heritage, a long lasting culture with people practicing the sport for fitness, health, self-confidence, and an over-all way of life!