5 Technical Tips I Learnt Training In Thailand

Summary

In this episode, the host shares five key training insights gained from a three-month stint in Thailand. They discuss variations in checking kicks, head movement during round kicks, power in cross punches, countering with kicks, and defensive front kicks. These tips aim to enhance technique and power in martial arts.

Takeaways

• 🥋 Training in Thailand can provide unique insights and techniques that differ from what you might learn elsewhere.
• 💡 The position of the elbow during a Muay Thai kick can vary; some gyms advocate for the inside, others for the outside, but the key is to avoid connecting the elbow with the knee.
• 🤔 Personal preference plays a role in technique execution, and seeing different approaches in Thailand can broaden your understanding and flexibility.
• 👀 When executing a round kick, turning your head in the direction of the kick can be unconventional, but it might enhance power and provide a different defensive angle.
• 💥 A unique training tip from Eminent Air gym involves dropping slightly when throwing a cross, which could potentially increase the impact and knockdown power.
• 👊 The importance of defense is emphasized, and incorporating a downward angle in strikes might not always be advisable depending on your defensive strategy.
• 🦵 A technique from Purple Mooc involves responding to a hook to the head with a leg attack, specifically a round kick, which trains a different kind of counter-attack.
• 🤼‍♂️ Blocking a punch and then firing back with a kick is a less common training method in North America, but it's practiced in Thailand and can be an effective counter technique.
• 🦶 When throwing front kicks, keeping the hands in the center line instead of swinging them out can provide better defense against potential straight punches.
• 👍 The overall emphasis in Thai training is on small, nuanced changes in technique that can make a significant difference in both offense and defense.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the video?

The main purpose of the video is to share five training tips and insights the speaker learned during their training in Thailand, which they believe can be beneficial for viewers to improve their martial arts techniques.

What is the first point discussed in the video about checking kicks in Muay Thai?

The first point discussed is whether the elbow should go in or out when checking kicks in Muay Thai. The speaker shares that there is no universally correct way, but they personally prefer the elbow on the inside.

What was the unique head movement technique taught during round kick training in Thailand?

The unique head movement technique involves using peripheral vision to see the target while turning the shoulders and hips in the direction of the kick, rather than looking directly at the target, which is believed to maximize power.

What is the difference in teaching methods between Simbi Gym and Fairtex Gym regarding the elbow position during kick checks?

At Simbi Gym, the speaker was taught to have the elbow on the inside during kick checks, whereas at Fairtex Gym, they were instructed to put the elbow on the outside.

What is the significance of the downward angle when throwing a cross punch as taught in Eminent Air Gym?

The downward angle when throwing a cross punch is believed to add more power and is more likely to knock the opponent down, as it involves dropping the punch instead of going straight through.

Why might firing back with a leg after a hook to the head be a more effective counter in Muay Thai?

Firing back with a leg after a hook to the head can be more effective because it takes advantage of the opponent's exposed midsection, and it's a less common reaction that might catch them off guard.

What is the recommended hand position when throwing front kicks in Thailand, and why?

The recommended hand position is to have the hands come down the center line, with the palm facing out. This position maintains the shoulder twisting motion and provides a defensive position against potential straight punches.

How does the speaker feel about the downward angle cross punch technique?

The speaker is unsure about implementing the downward angle cross punch technique into their own style because they believe it might compromise their defense by losing shoulder protection for the jaw and taking longer to retract the arm.

What is the speaker's view on the importance of defense in martial arts?

The speaker considers defense to be one of the most important aspects of martial arts, and they believe that any technique should be evaluated based on its defensive implications as well as its offensive potential.

What does the speaker suggest for viewers who want to learn more about the techniques discussed?

The speaker suggests that viewers should give the video a like and express their interest in the comments if they want to see more detailed demonstrations with a training partner in future videos.