BOB JONES CORPORATION (BJC) MUAY THAI

The style of Muay Thai originates from Thailand and incorporates punches, kicks, elbows and knees. It was used in warfare and as a means of self-defence. Eventually, after being passed down orally and through demonstrations, Muay Thai became the national sport of Thailand.

BJC Muay Thai provides students with a system that provides effective self-defence applications combined with competitive and sporting components. The syllabus also includes a grading system, similar to the system used in most martial arts. This grading system is used to distinguish between the various levels attained by individual students. The grading system also provides students with feedback on their progress and development whilst also providing them with achievable goals.

A basic class in Muay Thai consists of a Warm-up, Skipping, Stretching, Pushups and Sit-ups, Technique Work, Shadow Boxing, Partner Drills and Sparring. A typical class provides the student with a great overall workout, which is why many students enjoy the benefits of Muay Thai Boxing classes.

Muay Thai grades are recognizable by the colour of the singlet that the student wears.

Students should always refer to their Instructor as Mr./Ms (Last name), just as students in ZDK classes refer to their teachers by their appropriate title.

The grading structure for Thai Boxing is very similar all of the way through the grades - with the exception of second degree. The gradees will Skip and or do a warm-up. They will stretch and complete a set of pushups and sit-ups appropriate to their grade. Skills learned are then displayed on the various pads - including punches, kicks, elbows, knees, footwork and attack and defence techniques. After this, Shadow Boxing is demonstrated and finally the gradees will glove up and complete a set number of sparring rounds. As the student progresses through the ranks, the sparring should become more technical.

Second degree is what is known as the 'Marathon' and is an extremely difficult grading to complete. It is designed to encourage people to reach their absolute peak - and then to surpass it. It may sound a daunting prospect but once completed, the feeling is amazing. Second degree is also the last truly physical grading a Thai Boxer has to complete.

Third degree and above are awarded on the basis of the number of classes taught and the ability of the person as an instructor/trainer.

BJC Muay Thai is appropriate for men and women of all ages. It can be tailored to suit age and physical restrictions and provides you with not only self-defence skills, but also increased self-esteem. So every student at Total Martial Arts Centre should be encouraging their friends and family members to at least try a class and see if it fits - if not we have plenty of other classes to offer!