Kicks performed with the shin instead of the foot have been known on a regular basis to break legs and arms, or anything else in their path. The Thai's also include strong knee and elbow strikes in their repertoire along with western boxing techniques. Students start by learning the individual tools and then in combination. Offense is taught first with proper form being the primary goal, only after the form is developed comes the power and then the speed. Once offensive technique is acquired then the defenses and sparring drills are taught.
Conditioning is stressed and of primary importance.
Muay Thai is a ring sport with the contests lasting 5 three-minute rounds. Only the best conditioned fighters can retain any kind of form and composure. Respect and discipline are other qualities that are and expected of Thai Boxers. Before each fight the boxer will perform a short ceremony called the wai kru, or ram muay, which demonstrates his ability and also signifies respect for his teacher. Muay Thai students of the Thai Boxing Association of the USA are asked to observe October 16, as Teacher's Day.