Pehlvani is a popular wrestling style developed in the 16th century Mughal Empire, practised primarily in India. Although not as popular as other wrestling styles, Pehlwani wrestling has a rich history and is integrated deeply into the culture of South Asia. Also known as “Kushti”, Pehlwani is conceptually very similar to catch wrestling. The rules allow holds both above and below the waist and execution of different throws, pins, and submission holds. Though striking was allowed in its ancestor, malla-yuddha, modern Pehlwani practice does not allow kicks or punches. This is just a brief expla ..read more

Koh Tao is a beautiful island in the south of Thailand. It’s famous for its incredible diving spots, fun nightlife, and lovely beaches where backpackers love to stay. But there’s something new and exciting happening in Koh Tao. It’s becoming a popular place for Muay Thai, Thailand’s national sport. In this article, I’ll review one of the three Muay Thai gyms on Koh Tao, called Island Muay Thai Gym. I’ll cover the important stuff you’d look at when picking a gym: what it’s like there, where it is, how much it costs, and how good the training is. I spent three days at Island Muay Thai Gym, tryin ..read more

Kun Khmer is Cambodia’s traditional martial art and has been a popular combat sport since the 9th century. Although not as popular as other conceptually similar systems, Kun Khmer has significantly influenced the development of combat sports and martial arts practice in general. Also known as “Pradal Serey”, Kun Khmer focuses on standup striking using punches, kicks, knees, and elbows, clinch fighting, and limited grappling. The emphasis is on landing hard kicks from the distance and securing a dominant clinch position from which fighters can land hard elbows. It is very similar to Muay Thai ..read more

Muay Lao is a captivating combat sport from Laos, known for its dynamic mix of striking and clinching techniques. Unlike its more famous cousin, Muay Thai, Muay Lao boasts unique movements and a distinct style, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of Laos. In Lao culture, Muay Lao is much more than a sport; it holds a significant place, symbolizing strength, heritage, and national identity. It’s celebrated in local festivals, taught as a form of self-discipline, and revered as a link to the past. This article aims to peel back the layers of Muay Lao, exploring its historical roots, techniques ..read more

Combat sports are all about action and strategy. They’re physical contests like boxing, martial arts, and wrestling, where competitors go head-to-head to test skill, strength, and grit. It’s not just about being tough; it’s about being smart and quick on your feet. People love combat sports for the thrill and excitement. Something is gripping about watching athletes push their limits in the ring or on the mat. It’s a global passion, with fans cheering from all corners of the world. In this article, we’re diving into the exhilarating world of combat sports. We’ll explore what makes these sports ..read more

Often perceived as similar, martial arts and combat sports are distinct disciplines with unique histories, philosophies, and objectives. Thoroughly steeped in tradition, focusing on self-discipline, spiritual growth, and self-defense, Martial arts emphasize a holistic approach to personal development. Examples include Karate, Taekwondo, and Kung Fu. In contrast, combat sports like Boxing, Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), and Judo are more recently structured around competition, physical prowess, and tactical skill in a regulated environment. Understanding the differences between martial arts and comb ..read more

Krabi-Krabong is a traditional Thai martial art deeply entwined with the history and culture of Thailand. Known for its elegant yet effective combat techniques, it employs a range of weapons, including swords, staffs, and spears, alongside unarmed combat. This ancient art form is not just a method of self-defense but also a discipline that fosters spiritual and physical development. The significance of Krabi-Krabong in Thai culture extends beyond the realm of martial skills. It is a symbol of national heritage, reflecting the historical battles and valor of the Thai people. Integral to various ..read more

Mixed Martial Arts has skyrocketed in popularity over the past few decades, evolving from underground events to mainstream sports entertainment. At its core, MMA is a blend of various combat disciplines, from boxing to Brazilian jiu-jitsu, wrestling to Muay Thai, making it one of the most demanding sports in the world. Physical fitness, hence, becomes paramount. In the world of combat sports, where competitors are often separated by mere seconds and inches, being in peak physical condition can be the difference between victory and defeat. It’s not just about raw strength; it’s about endurance ..read more

High-Intensity Interval Training, or HIIT, is a fitness regimen characterized by short, intense bursts of activity followed by rest periods or reduced intensity. This approach is designed to push the body’s boundaries in a condensed timeframe, challenging both aerobic and anaerobic systems. Mixed Martial Arts is a multifaceted combat sport, incorporating diverse fighting techniques and demanding exceptional physical and mental agility. The varying intensity of MMA matches mirrors the HIIT structure, highlighting HIIT’s pertinence in MMA training. In this article, we’ll delve deeper into how HI ..read more

More than just techniques and exercise, martial arts are instrumental avenues for children to discover discipline, focus, and determination. In a world of video games and social media, these age-old practices offer young minds an anchor, grounding them while allowing them to harness their innate energies effectively. Diving into the martial arts world reveals an expansive horizon of developmental benefits. It’s not just about the physical prowess, though that is undeniably a perk. It’s also about mental grit, resilience, respect, and self-awareness—qualities that equip children for life’s chal ..read more