Word Street Journal

Muay Thai is a fantastic martial art, but the world of MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) beckons!  The good news? Your Muay Thai skills provide a solid foundation for mastering MMA techniques.  Here are 5 essential MMA moves you can start incorporating into your Muay Thai gym training to become a well-rounded MMA fighter:

MMA fights can quickly transition from stand-up striking to grappling on the ground. Mastering takedowns gives you the upper hand in controlling the fight.  One great option for Muay Thai practitioners is the double-leg takedown. This technique utilizes your strong legs, honed in Muay Thai, to shoot in, grab your opponent’s legs, and bring them down to the mat.  Ask your Kru (instructor) for guidance on proper form and drilling this takedown with a training partner.

Once you take your opponent down, it’s time to control them and unleash strikes. Muay Thai’s elbow strikes and knee strikes translate surprisingly well to ground control. Practice transitioning from the takedown to a dominant side-control position, where you can use your knees to pin your opponent and rain down punches or elbows. Muay Thai gyms often incorporate basic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) techniques, which perfectly complement your Muay Thai striking for ground control.

While Muay Thai focuses on striking, understanding basic submissions can be a game-changer in MMA program. The rear-naked choke (RNC) is a great option for beginners.  This choke utilizes your opponent’s back and your arm to restrict blood flow, forcing them to tap out.  Learning the proper choke mechanics and practicing them safely with a training partner is crucial. Muay Thai gyms often offer intro to BJJ classes, where you can learn basic submissions like the RNC to add to your MMA arsenal.

Defense is just as important as offense! Muay Thai’s footwork and core strength will serve you well in preventing takedowns. Practice the sprawl, a defensive technique where you sprawl your legs outwards when your opponent shoots for a takedown.  Combine the sprawl with maintaining good posture and strong core engagement to prevent them from taking you down. Muay Thai gym drills like shadowboxing with takedown defense in mind will help you develop this crucial MMA skill.

Footwork is the foundation of any good martial art.  Muay Thai footwork emphasizes agility, balance, and maintaining proper distance from your opponent.  These skills translate seamlessly to MMA program.  Practice footwork drills that focus on circling, cutting angles, and maintaining a safe distance while still being in striking range.  Muay Thai footwork drills will give you the base you need to move effectively in the dynamic environment of an MMA fight.

Muay Thai program isn’t just a striking art; it’s a springboard to MMA dominance.  By mastering these 5 essential MMA techniques at your Muay Thai gym, you’ll become a well-rounded fighter comfortable on both feet and on the ground. Suwit Muay Thai with interior design is an example of Muay Thai with MMA program.  Remember,  always prioritize safety and proper form when practicing new techniques. With dedication and the guidance of your Kru, you’ll transform your Muay Thai skills into a force to be reckoned with in the world of MMA!