We have made it to the 2010's and up to today. Hands down, the next Martial Art on our list is the national sport of Thailand, Muay Thai or "Thai Boxing"! Muay Thai has slowly been gaining popularity around the world for the last fifteen to twenty years. However, it has been the success of high level MMA fighters in the UFC who have helped demonstrate the effectiveness of the art. Muay Thai is both a combat sport and a Martial Art. Kickboxing, often confused as Muay Thai is very different. Muay Thai is called the "Art of the eight limbs", due to its use of two hands, two elbows, two knees and two feet (actually shins are used to kick, not the feet). The Thai style also utilizes a wide range of clinching techniques where the practitioner can sweep their opponent to the ground or throw elbows. Kickboxing does not use the clinch, elbows and knees are not allowed and the style of movement is vastly different. The primary reason for the slow growth of Muay Thai is relatively the same as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with the lack of qualified teachers. This is starting to change however. More and more people are making trips to Thailand and more Thais are traveling out of the country to spread the art. The Thai style is generally considered the best stand up striking style on the planet.
