Additionally, we offer Muay Thai & MMA classes for beginner youth and adults in Richmond BC, Metro Vancouver, at Art of Kickboxing. Come join us to learn practical self-defence techniques that could protect you, and your loved ones, in a street fight.
But first, here are the key differences between Muay Thai and MMA.
Origins and Techniques: 16th Century Muay Thai vs 20th Century MMA
Muay Thai dates back to the 16th century in Thailand, where it was developed as a form of Thai Boxing, known locally as Muay Boran. This ancient fighting style became Thailand’s national sport, forming a part of its national identity. Fighters are trained in using fists, elbows, knees, and shins, often practicing hard-hitting knee strikes and roundhouse kicks.
MMA, which emerged in the 20th century, integrates multiple martial arts styles such as Muay Thai, western boxing, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and wrestling. This combination offers fighters a wide range of techniques that cover both striking techniques and ground fighting. Unlike Muay Thai’s exclusive focus on striking, MMA embraces both standing and ground combat, allowing more flexibility in terms of tactics and approach.
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Rules and Fight Structure: Stand-up Striking vs Comprehensive Combat
A major difference between Muay Thai and MMA is in their terms of rules and fight structure. Muay Thai’s traditional fights are restricted to stand-up combat, where the clinch is used to control the opponent and land strikes. There are no takedowns or submissions. Points are earned by landing clean shots, especially with elbows and knees, making Muay Thai a highly specialized martial art for stand-up striking. Fighters wear boxing gloves and the match duration is typically five rounds of three minutes.
In contrast, MMA allows for ground fighting techniques such as submissions and grappling, in addition to the stand-up game. Fights are held in an octagon-shaped cage, with three or five rounds of five minutes. The range of techniques in MMA, from striking to grappling, creates a more comprehensive combat experience. Pro-MMA fighters develop skills across multiple disciplines to make themselves more versatile fighters than those focusing on one fighting style alone.
Training Methods: Specialized Striking vs All-Around Skills
When it comes to training methods, Muay Thai fighters often focus heavily on standup training with an emphasis on sparring sessions that develop striking power, conditioning, and flexibility. Training typically includes sandbag training, pad work, and clinch practice to improve a fighter’s endurance and striking skill. Muay Thai’s focus on powerful strikes and clinching makes it an effective discipline for developing quick reflexes and precision in striking.
MMA fighters, on the other hand, must train in multiple areas. Their training includes both stand-up sparring and grip training for ground combat. MMA requires fighters to master various skills, such as head movement from western boxing, submission techniques from jiu-jitsu, and wrestling for takedowns. This all-around skill training makes MMA fighters more adaptable in different situations, be it a cage fighting match or a self-defence situation.
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Mixed Martial Arts & Muay Thai Training Classes, Richmond BC, Metro Vancouver
Muay Thai or MMA fighting, Art of Kickboxing offers specialized classes at BLK BOX Gym in Richmond, BC. We provide a welcoming environment for beginners and experienced fighters alike, with a focus on practical self-defence situation scenarios, improving your physical skills, and enhancing your elbow or knee game. Classes range from stand-up sparring in Muay Thai to ground fighting sessions in MMA, making it a great place to learn both disciplines under one roof.
If you’re interested in improving your striking skill or becoming proficient in combat sports, consider joining their martial arts training to boost your confidence and fitness. Whether you’re preparing for a competition or simply looking to get into shape, Art of Kickboxing offers a range of training options suited to all skill levels.
