Basics of Muaythai Techniques
Muaythai techniques were known as the "Art of Eight Limbs" as there are eight natural weapons to fight with: fists, elbows, knees and feet. The most peculiar muaythai techniques, which also differentiate Thai boxing from Chinese and Japanese martial arts, are related to the use of elbows and knees to ultimately destroy the opponent. The risk of injuries from such blows is quite high, therefore in many international tournaments elbows strikes are banned, penalizing Thai fighters when matched against foreign champions. Even in Thailand, some beautiful and vicious elbow/knees combinations are rarely used, or forbidden, as muaythai itself is evolving into a less pure form of traditional Thai boxing.