Basic Muay Thai Requirements

Griffin Fighting Systems

Our Muay Thai program follows a structured approach to ensure practitioners develop a strong foundation in this powerful martial art. Below are the requirements for various levels of training, designed to help students progress methodically through their Muay Thai journey.

Basic Muay Thai Requirements I and II

Basic Strikes

Every Muay Thai practitioner must demonstrate proficiency in the following fundamental techniques:

1. Jab - A quick, straight punch with the lead hand
2. Cross - A powerful straight punch with the rear hand
3. Hook - A circular punch delivered with either hand
4. Front Kick - A straight kick using the ball of the foot
5. Teep (Push Kick) - A pushing kick used to create distance
6. Dyae (Cut Kick or Round Kick) - A powerful swinging kick with the shin
7. Khow (Knee) - Strike using the knee, typically to the body or head
8. Sawk (Elbow) - Various elbow strikes, extremely powerful at close range

Basic Combinations

Students must demonstrate the following combinations with proper form, balance, and power:

• Teep, Jab, Cross, Hook
• Front Kick, Hook, Cross, Hook
• Shuffle Kick Low, Cross, Hook, Cross
• Additional combinations as taught in class

Intermediate Muay Thai Requirements I and II

Muay Thai 4 Counts

The 4-count system helps practitioners develop rhythm, timing, and flow between techniques. Students must demonstrate proficiency in the following patterns:

• Left to Right
• Right to Left
• Right to Right
• Left to Left

High Performance Series

These advanced drills incorporate defensive movements with counter-attacks:

• Shoulder Stop, etc.
• Bob and Weave, etc.
• Scoop the Jab, etc.
• Right Kick Primer, etc.

Additional Combos

Students must demonstrate:

• More complex 4-count combinations
• At least 10 of the 15 standard combinations taught in class

Advanced Training Components

As students progress, they will also need to demonstrate:

Clinch Work (Plum)

• Proper entry techniques
• Controlling positions
• Defensive techniques
• Offensive techniques including strikes from the clinch
• Sweeps and throws

Defensive Skills

• Blocks and parries
• Evasive footwork
• Checking kicks
• Counter-striking

Ring Strategy

• Controlling distance
• Managing the fight space
• Timing and rhythm
• Energy conservation

Training Methodology

Our approach to Muay Thai training emphasizes:

1. Technical precision before power or speed
2. Gradual progression through the requirements
3. Regular padwork to develop timing and power
4. Controlled sparring to apply techniques
5. Conditioning specific to Muay Thai

Assessment Process

Students will be evaluated on:

• Technical execution
• Power and speed appropriate to level
• Understanding of applications
• Overall performance and improvement

Remember that mastering these requirements takes time and consistent practice. Focus on quality over quantity, and always train with purpose and mindfulness.

Progress through these requirements will prepare you not only for potential competition but will develop functional striking skills applicable across various combat sports and self-defense scenarios.