Muay Thai, which translates to "Thai boxing" been being practiced in Thailand for literally centuries but didn't turn into the modern sport we know today until the late 20th century. Known as "The Art of 8 Limbs" this discipline is similar to kickboxing but uses fists, elbows, knees, and shins. It also incorporates various clinching and throwing techniques. Matches take place in a ring with rounds of action and use a 10 point scoring system much like western Boxing. There is no uniform used in Muay Thai, just boxing or Muay Thai shorts and a T-shirt.

Muay Thai is recognized as one of, if not THE, most complete and effective striking art on the planet and is gaining popularity all over the world through organizations like One Championship, K-1, and Glory Kickboxing. In 1993, the International Federation of Muaythai Amateur (IFMA) was formed and now includes 130 member countries. Two years later, the World Muay thai Council was formed and is the official world governing body for professional Muay Thai. The organization includes members from 120 countries. In 2016 it was finally granted Provisional Recognition as an Olympic Sport which allowing host countries to add it to their games.

The Muay Thai coaches at Yamasaki Academy have fought Muay Thai all over the world and understand what it takes to win in the ring according to traditional Muay Thai scoring and judging.  That being said, we also like to incorporate western boxing concepts into our training as well to keep our students well rounded.

Live sparring is used in our class curriculum to students can learn to use their techniques against another skilled person.  While this  is encouraged for experienced students, it is not required.