Way Of Life
AsiaSpa Magazine|March - April 2018

Muay Thai trains the mind as effectively as the body.

Angela Goh
Way Of Life

Beyond the sights, food and spas, Muay Thai is an exciting, immersive and healthy way to experience Thailand. This martial arts discipline evolved from an ancient art of combat to a national sport and is now a mainstream fitness trend, attracting amateur and professional fighters from around the world, as well as Thais who punch and kick their way to fitness.

More than just the ability to flaunt ‘spinning elbows’ and ‘flying knees’, recreational practitioners are drawn to Muay Thai for its fullbody, high-calorie burn workout, making it popular for ramping up fitness, self-defence and confidence.

Arlada Jumsai Na Ayudhya, marketing communications director of Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers in Bangkok, started learning Muay Thai a year ago to spice up her gym routine, and says, “It’s hard, fast and fun. The best part is learning how to defend and attack, so watch out!” Her sentiments echo those of other enthusiasts who find the sport more varied than conventional machines or weightlifting. Practising just once a week keeps Ayudhya feeling strong.

The national sport was originally developed by Thai soldiers when then Siam was at war with neighbouring countries. Described as the ‘art of eight limbs’ for its use of arms, legs, elbows and knees, these ‘weapons’ were better suited then for dense jungle warfare than spears and swords. Today, it has not changed much except for the use of modern protective gear.

Body-mind Connection

This story is from the March - April 2018 edition of AsiaSpa Magazine.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

This story is from the March - April 2018 edition of AsiaSpa Magazine.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

MORE STORIES FROM ASIASPA MAGAZINEView All
Skin Care - Bask Carefree
AsiaSpa Magazine

Skin Care - Bask Carefree

These skincare essentials protect or soothe while beach-bound.

time-read
1 min  |
Thailand Supplement 2019 - 2020
Winds Of Change
AsiaSpa Magazine

Winds Of Change

Anantara’s Phuket flagship hotels and residences offer a breath of fresh air.

time-read
6 mins  |
Thailand Supplement 2019 - 2020
Getting Greener
AsiaSpa Magazine

Getting Greener

Thailand’s fertile jungles, wildlife and rich culture make the ideal landscape for a sustainable vacation. From green hotels with zero-waste policies, to tribal homestays that empower local communities, the variety of experiences are wide and varied.

time-read
4 mins  |
Thailand Supplement 2019 - 2020
Rock Out
AsiaSpa Magazine

Rock Out

Phuket’s Kata Rocks injects fun into spas.

time-read
2 mins  |
Thailand Supplement 2019 - 2020
Divine Escapes
AsiaSpa Magazine

Divine Escapes

Finding respite in Thailand is easy. The real challenge is selecting from the tempting array of beachside resorts, urban sanctuaries and spa retreats.

time-read
3 mins  |
Thailand Supplement 2019 - 2020
Top 10 Historic Thai Sites
AsiaSpa Magazine

Top 10 Historic Thai Sites

A country steeped in history and heritage, Thailand captivates mind and spirit with ancient sites, temples and even secret tunnels.

time-read
4 mins  |
Thailand Supplement 2019 - 2020
Mane Attraction
AsiaSpa Magazine

Mane Attraction

Male balding can be slowed with naturopathy, acupuncture and diet

time-read
4 mins  |
September - October 2019
Nature's Nutraceutical
AsiaSpa Magazine

Nature's Nutraceutical

The cannabis derivative CBD is said to offer a litany of wellness benefits without the ‘high’ that comes with CBD’s sister extract, THC. Now, it’s making headway into the culinary world

time-read
4 mins  |
September - October 2019
Sense Of Place
AsiaSpa Magazine

Sense Of Place

Place The InterContinental-ANA Ishigaki Resort presents laidback, luxury living in beguiling lands that time almost forgot

time-read
7 mins  |
September - October 2019
Jasmine Nunns
AsiaSpa Magazine

Jasmine Nunns

A nature walk can help you navigate urban life says this forest therapy guide

time-read
3 mins  |
September - October 2019