Muay Thai, a combat sport originated in Thailand, is now practiced all over the world with similar basic techniques. Though most of the basic techniques were similar to the ancient art form, some changes were made to popularize the sport in various countries. Muay Thai is now practiced in a ring similar to that of the western boxing ring. Moreover, Muay Thai also uses various equipments like other contact sports.
Basic Equipments
In the ancient days, Muay Thai was practiced without any special equipment. Nowadays, Muay Thai uses various basic equipments like gloves, and protective gears. This is mainly due to the transformation of Muay Thai from being a martial art to a sporting event. Wearing gloves may reduce the impact of a punch and hence it can be used to protect the fists of a fighter. Muay Thai gloves slightly differ from regular boxing gloves in terms of its flexibility. Choosing the right type of gloves can be crucial in executing the offensive moves.
Abdomen guard, or groin guard, is also an important accessory in various combat sporting events. Muay Thai involves a combination of deadly kicks, elbow and knee strikes and hence there is a need for groin guard. The abdomen guard used in Muay Thai is specially designed in such a way that it allows free kicking moves.
Headgears can be used during Muay Thai matches to protect the head area including temple, ears, and certain facial parts. The elbow and knee strikes used in Muay Thai are very much dangerous for a beginner and hence headgears can be used for protecting the head area. Equipments like body armor and shin protector are used by Muay Thai fighters in amateur contests.
Training Equipments
Besides other fighting equipments, there are plenty of other equipments that can be used for training purposes only. Equipments like punching mitts and belly protection pad can be used by a Muay Thai trainer to avoid receiving any direct strikes. Punching bags and kicking pads form the basic training equipments for Muay Thai. Other accessories like Muay Thai outfits and hand wraps are also included in the list of Muay Thai equipments.