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.
It is estimated that muaythai history began about 1500 years ago, when several warring kingdoms dominated what is now called South East Asia. From the mountains of Western Myanmar to the Mekong's delta in South Vietnam, historical records show that the area was a constant battlefield. Three main races were constantly fighting, switching their allegiances, betraying their own people while protecting their own fragile kingdoms. These were the Burmese, the Siamese and the Khmer. They share a common history of wars, often fought for riches, farming land or for the beauty of a princess.