Muay Thai has been an integral part of Thai tradition.
The art evolved from centuries of pre-industrial military clashes with Thailand's
neighboring countries and city-states. If a warrior dropped his weapon, he was
forced to use what tools his body naturally possessed.
Over the long years, a system of combat emerged from the warriors who successfully
defended their lives on the battlefield. Unlike many martial arts, Thai Boxing
is not rooted in the hypothetical or conceptual, rather, it is highly practical.
Thai Boxing was later adapted to a ring event, and has since become the national
sport of Thailand.
Muay Thai is rich in tradition and ritual. The "wai kru" is an ancient
Thai custom that demonstrates respect and gratitude to one's teacher who are
held at the highest esteem in this art. Before a fight, a ritual dance is performed
called the "wai kru" "raam muay", that not only shows respect
to one's lineage, but also calms the mind of the fighter, preparing him for
the battle ahead. These rites are thought to protect the fighter from injury
and lead him to victory.