Muay Thai is a great way to get in shape and learn self-defense, but it's important to spar safely and respectfully. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your Muay Thai training:
1. Warm up thoroughly before sparring. This will help prevent injuries and increase your performance.
2. Be respectful to your partner. This includes things like not hitting too hard, not using profanity, generally, sparring is about techniques over power. Don't try to use power, but proper techniques. In Muay Thai, opponents or sparring partners touch gloves before action commences and appreciation is shown with a “Wai” (slight bow with hands together) when it ends.
3. Be relax and learn. Don't tense up easily. Making effort to breathe and relax can minimise fatigue or gassing out too quickly.
4. Use proper technique. This means using the correct stance, keeping your hands up, and throwing punches and kicks correctly.
5. Ask questions. At the end of each round, you can ask your sparring partner on techniques he used. They are always in the best position to make observations on your strengths and weaknesses.
6. Use 16oz Gloves. It’s good etiquette to use 16oz gloves, sometimes 14 Oz is acceptable. Anything lighter can hurt your sparring partner.
If you don’t have any 16oz gloves then you should definitely consider buying some. We’ve got a great selection in our latest catalogue.
7. Always Wear a Mouthguard
Even though you’re only sparring, blows still hurt and can seriously damage your teeth. That’s why wearing an appropriate and high-quality mouthguard is an absolute must.
8. No Elbows
This goes without saying. Elbows are rarely used in Muay Thai sparring
9. Wash and Sanitize Your Gear
Always wash and air out your gear after training. This not only keeps you healthy, but shows respect for your training partners.
10. Other Importnant Hygiene Tips
Be sure to cut your nails short so you won't scratch people while clinching. This includes your toenails since people have been cut by long toenails.
Lastly, have fun! Sparring is a great way to improve your skills and make new friends. So relax and enjoy yourself.