5 Muay Thai Styles You Should Know – Find Your Perfect Fit

Let’s be honest, Muay Thai isn’t just any martial art. It’s fierce, fast, and full of flavor. What makes it so exciting? The answer lies in the unique variety of Muay Thai styles. This isn’t just about throwing a punch or landing a kick. Muay Thai uses the whole body as a weapon—your fists, feet, knees, elbows, and even your rhythm. It’s all about how you use them and which style matches your instincts best.

Now you might be wondering, if I’m just getting started, which Muay Thai style should I focus on? Good question. And the truth is, there’s no one size fits all answer. That’s the beauty of it. Whether you're drawn to explosive punches, deadly elbows, or slick footwork, each style has its own set of Muay Thai techniques and Muay Thai basic strikes that can make you a real force in the ring.

But wait, it’s not just about choosing a cool style. There’s more under the surface. The style that suits you best also depends on your body type, stamina, striking skills, and how quickly you can think on your feet literally. Some fighters have lightning reflexes, others rely on raw strength or sharp strategy. That’s why Muay Thai is so dynamic, it bends and adapts to who you are.

And while you’ll find fighters mixing things up, there are 5 iconic Muay Thai styles that most fighters start with. Each one has its own character, its own energy, and its own challenges. Ready to find your match? Let’s dive into the world of punches, knees, kicks, elbows, and technical wizardry—the 5 Muay Thai styles every fighter should know.

1. Punch-Focused Style (Muay Mat)

A Muay Mat fighter delivering a powerful body hook punch to his opponent’s ribs using classic Muay Thai punching technique.

Let’s be real Muay Thai is a martial art that makes opponents respect your presence And what makes it so exciting is the variety of Muay Thai styles fueled by unique Muay Thai techniques and Muay Thai basic strikes tailored to your strength and instincts

Think about punches for a moment You’ve got heavy punches that rock your opponent like a hammer blow And then there are slick precision strikes that land clean at the exact point of impact delivering maximum power while conserving energy Those are the Muay Thai techniques many beginners master first before embracing more aggressive styles

In Muay Thai punches are the most used weapons in the ring They are typically more frequent than knee elbow or foot strikes The art of punching in Muay Thai isn’t just about power it’s also about timing accuracy and leg drive Let’s break down the four essential punches every beginner must learn

• Straight punch

  The backbone of Muay Thai punches. You stand with your weight centered, draw power from your shoulders, hips, and legs, then launch a straight fist at your opponent. The lead straight or jab sets up the fight, controlling distance while the rear straight lands with more force, usually following your front hand for added impact.

• Hook

  This curved powerful punch is unleashed from the side Using your shoulder hips and legs the hook travels in a horizontal arc targeting the jaw temple or ribs Short hooks are perfect when your opponent shields their face Long hooks generate thunderous power from a greater range

• Uppercut

  Called the “Mat Soi Dao” in Thai It’s a potent Muay Thai basic strike delivered from low to high aiming under the chin For close quarters combat once you learn the Muay Thai technique behind the angles you can maximize its knockout potential

• Overhead punch

  Called the “Mat Khok” Think of a hammer coming down on your quarry This vertical strike travels from high to low driven by shoulder and torso rotation With narrow and wide versions the overhead punch is a devastating weapon when thrown at the right moment

These Muay Thai techniques and Muay Thai basic strikes form the foundation of any punch focused style With enough practice you can seamlessly combine them to adapt to any opponent

Khaosai Galaxy is a legendary Thai puncher known for his powerful left hook to the body earning him the nickname "The Left Fist That Pierces the Gut" Sai Taluang Sai. Saensak Muangsurin also became famous for his aggressive style and heavy punches earning global respect as "The Iron Fist" and becoming a world boxing champion early in his career.

Training in a Muay Thai gym near you will guide your journey from beginner to advanced fighter Applying proper striking mechanics energy efficiency and timing is key Each punch style demands conditioning speed mental agility and ring intelligence

So if you're just starting out or you’ve already felt the thrill of Muay Thai drills this punch focused style offers power finesse and room to grow It’s one of the five core Muay Thai styles every fighter should explore

2. Knee-Focused Style (Muay Khao)

A Muay Khao specialist executing a Spearing Knee (Khao La) to the opponent’s side while clinching in close-range combat.

In the art of eight limbs, Muay Thai styles that emphasize knee strikes are known as Muay Khao. The knee is considered a powerful short-range weapon, second only to kicks. This style is designed for close combat, often involving clinching, grappling, and delivering devastating knees to wear down opponents.

In Muay Thai techniques, this move is called “Ti Khao” — the act of raising the leg and bending the knee at a sharp angle to drive the point of the knee into vital areas like the abdomen, rib cage, or even the face. Fighters often grab the opponent's neck or shoulders with both hands (in a clinch) to control movement and land powerful, accurate knees.

Let’s break down some essential Muay Thai basic strikes using the knee:

• Straight Knee (Khao Trong / Khao Nhon)

  A fundamental technique where the knee is thrust forward in a straight line. The foot stays pointed backward, and the strike targets the stomach, chest, or chin. When used from a clinch, this move can be delivered repeatedly with force. Mastering this strike also requires defensive awareness, with both hands held high to guard against counterattacks.

• Diagonal Knee (Khao Chiang)

  This knee is thrown at a diagonal angle across the body, usually using hip rotation for added power. It’s highly effective against the ribs, chest, and even the face. If you're clinching and pull the opponent slightly off-balance, this strike becomes even more punishing.

• Cutting Knee (Khao Tat)

  This lateral strike swings across the body horizontally or slightly downward. Using hip torque and a strong core twist, the fighter slashes the opponent’s thighs or midsection. In some cases, when delivered in an arc from high to low, it’s referred to as a “curved knee” (Khao Khong), used to break rhythm and destabilize the opponent.

• Spearing Knee (Khao La)

  A mid-range strike that doesn’t require clinching. The movement is similar to an angular kick, using the knee and shin to drive into the body. It’s especially effective when aiming at the lower ribs or abdomen.

• Jumping Knee (Khao Loi)

  One of the most spectacular Muay Thai basic strikes, this explosive move involves jumping off the ground and driving the knee upward, targeting the opponent’s torso or face. It can be delivered as a lead or rear knee, and when timed perfectly, it becomes a highlight-reel knockout.

• Short Knee (Khao Noi)

  Used during clinches, this is a rapid, repeated knee attack aimed at the thighs or lower abdomen. While it may not be as flashy as the jumping knee, it’s incredibly effective at wearing down opponents and breaking their balance—perfect for setting up more powerful attacks.

Muay Khao is one of the most physically demanding Muay Thai styles, requiring excellent stamina, core strength, and strong clinch control. It may not be the flashiest approach, but when executed with precision, it dominates the ring with relentless pressure and close-range power. If you love staying up close, breaking your opponent’s rhythm, and landing punishing knee strikes, Muay Khao might be your perfect fit.

To succeed with this style, you must develop solid clinching and in-fighting skills. Fighters with tall and lean physiques often excel in this discipline, as they can generate more leverage and range—just look at legends like Dieselnoi Chor Thanasukarn or rising stars like Nabil Anane, both towering at around 1.90 meters. That said, height isn’t everything. Mastering Muay Thai techniques across all areas is key to being well-rounded and successful in the ring.

Knee strikes are among the most powerful weapons in Muay Thai. When used skillfully, they can overwhelm opponents, break their guard, and turn the tide of any match. This weapon is part of what makes Muay Thai so unique compared to other martial arts—and a reason why Muay Khao stands out as a fierce and tactical style.

3. Kick-Focused Style (Muay Tae)

A Muay Tae fighter throwing a high kick toward the opponent’s neck while the opponent attempts to block with his forearm.

Muay Tae is one of the most powerful and visually striking Muay Thai styles, built around devastating kicks. While Muay Thai techniques involve using all eight limbs, Muay Tae specializes in utilizing the legs as primary weapons. This style allows fighters to attack at both close and long ranges, making it incredibly versatile in the ring.

Many people mistakenly believe that Muay Tae is only suitable for tall fighters with long legs—but that’s not entirely true. Even shorter athletes can deliver highly effective kicks if they have good timing, flexibility, and balance. What makes Muay Tae stand out is the ability to generate explosive power by using the entire leg—hips, thighs, calves, and feet—to strike with force and accuracy.

Common targets for Muay Thai kicks include

the opponent’s ribs, thighs, neck, and even the head. But proper technique is key: when one leg strikes, the other must serve as a stable base to maintain balance and avoid being countered. Among Muay Thai basic strikes, kicks are often the most damaging—especially when aimed with intent and control.

Core Muay Thai Kicking Techniques (Muay Tae Basics):

• Teep (Push Kick):

  A front kick using the ball or heel of the foot to create distance or disrupt rhythm. It’s different from a roundhouse kick and is used to manage range, similar to a jab in boxing.

• Straight Kick:

  A vertical kick aimed directly forward, often targeting the midsection or face.

• Roundhouse Kick (Teh Tat):

  A powerful swinging kick delivered horizontally. It can target the legs, body, or head and is often used to break an opponent's defense.

• Diagonal Kick (Teh Chieng):

  A slashing kick at an angle—effective for cutting through guard or attacking off-angle.

• Spinning Back Kick:

  A dynamic technique involving a full turn and backward strike, often aimed at the torso or head.

• Axe Kick (Jorakay Fad Hang):

  A spinning kick that mimics a whip or tail strike, often targeting the neck or face.

• Jump Kick:

  A flying kick used to surprise or finish an opponent with a high-impact strike.

These kicking Muay Thai techniques are often combined with other Muay Thai basic strikes like elbows or knees, creating fluid combinations that keep opponents guessing.

Famous Muay Tae Fighters:

• Buakaw Banchamek

  Known for his brutal and precise leg kicks, especially his chopping low kicks that break down opponents.

• Saenchai

  A technical genius, Saenchai’s kicks are not only fast and unpredictable but also creatively executed with perfect balance.

• Yodsanklai Fairtex

  Famous for his body kicks and devastating power, particularly targeting the ribs and arms to wear down opponents.

Muay Tae may look elegant and even effortless in the hands of a seasoned fighter, but make no mistake—it’s a Muay Thai style built on power, precision, and perfect timing. If you enjoy controlling space and striking from all ranges, mastering Muay Thai kicks can give you a massive edge both in fitness and in the ring.

4. Elbow-Focused Style (Muay Sok)

A Muay Sok practitioner landing a horizontal elbow (Sok Tad) to the opponent’s jaw in close-quarters combat.

Among all Muay Thai styles, Muay Sok is arguably the most brutal. The elbow is a razor-sharp weapon—small, fast, and devastating. When timed perfectly, an elbow strike to a vital point like the chin or temple can lead to a knockout in an instant. That’s why elbow techniques are feared and revered in the ring.

Muay Thai elbows are all about precision and speed, not wide swings. Fighters generate power from short distances, making this technique deadly in close-range combat. In professional bouts, fighters rarely telegraph their elbows. Instead, they deliver sharp, snapping strikes using the tip of the elbow to slice or stun.

Here are some of the most effective Muay Thai elbow techniques:

• Vertical Elbow (Ti Sok)

  A downward strike from top to bottom, targeting the top of the head or forehead.

• Horizontal Elbow (Sok Tad):

  A sideways swing across the opponent’s face or jaw, often used after pivoting the body to increase force.

• Uppercut Elbow (Sok Ngad):

  A rising elbow aimed under the opponent’s chin, similar to an uppercut punch.

• Spinning Elbow (Sok Klap):

  A turning strike thrown over the shoulder, catching the opponent with the back-facing elbow—lethal when timed correctly.

Although the elbow can end fights quickly, it’s not easy to master. It’s a close-range weapon that demands speed, accuracy, and flawless timing. A poorly executed elbow can leave you open to counters, especially against experienced opponents. That’s why mastering Muay Thai elbow techniques takes dedication.

Still, many international students come to Thailand specifically to learn elbow strikes. They know it’s one of the most unique and dangerous tools in Muay Thai and to be one of the hardest to perfect.

Legendary elbow specialists include:

• Muangthai PK Saenchai Muay Thai Gym, nicknamed “Elbow Zombie” is known for his emotionless face and ruthless precision.

• Yodkhunpon Sittraiphum is a living legend widely respected for his technical mastery and one of the greatest elbow users the sport has seen.

If you love Muay Thai for its intensity and artistry, Muay Sok is a style that demands your respect and could become your secret weapon.

5. Muay Femur – Tactical Boxing Mastery in Muay Thai

credit: Saenchai Muaythaigym facebook

Muay Femur, also known as Tactical Boxing, is considered the most sophisticated and cerebral of all Muay Thai styles. It focuses not on raw power but on strategy, finesse, and fight intelligence. Fighters who excel in this style are often described as having a "Muay Thai IQ"—able to read the fight, predict the opponent's next move, and react with precision.

Unlike more aggressive or power-based styles, Muay Femur fighters do not rush. Instead, they rely on timing, footwork, deception, and versatile Muay Thai techniques. Their strikes may not always be the hardest, but they are among the most accurate and well-timed. Muay Femur practitioners are artists in the ring—measured, graceful, but deadly.

What Defines a Muay Femur (Tactical Boxer):

• Tactical brilliance: Every move is part of a broader strategy. These fighters excel in controlling the rhythm and distance of a fight.

• Complete weapon mastery: Muay Femur practitioners utilize all Muay Thai basic strikes—punches, kicks, elbows, knees—with precision.

• Footwork & fluidity: Movement is key. They slip, dodge, and pivot with elegance, constantly creating angles.

• Fight IQ: They know when to engage and when to evade, making opponents look slow or predictable.

Legendary Muay Femur Fighters:

• Samart Payakaroon Nicknamed “The Jade-Faced Executioner”, Samart is a Muay Femur icon. His sharp timing, agility, and calm under pressure are the definition of tactical boxing.

• Jaroenthong Kiatbanchong A strategist in the ring, known for his ability to dismantle aggressive opponents with skill and movement.

• Saenchai (Saenchai Muay Thai Gym) A living legend whose unorthodox style, showmanship, and high-level Muay Femur mastery have made him a global fan favorite.

In short, if you’re a thinker who values precision over power, and movement over brute strength, Muay Femur might be your perfect fit. As the epitome of tactical boxing in Muay Thai, this style proves that intelligence can beat intensity in the art of eight limbs.

How These Styles Apply in MMA, Kickboxing and Fitness?

A fighter combining Muay Thai techniques with MMA, using a front push kick to create distance during a striking exchange.

These 5 Muay Thai styles showcase the rich diversity and depth of Muay Thai techniques, each offering unique strengths for different fighters and fitness goals. Whether you're just beginning your Muay Thai training, diving deeper into MMA, or simply looking to elevate your workout with powerful striking skills, Muay Thai offers something for everyone. It’s more than a combat sport—it’s a complete system for fitness and mental discipline, blending the best of kickboxing with centuries of Thai tradition.

Ready to train like a warrior? Visit Nowmuaythai.com to find top Muay Thai gyms near you. With a variety of styles and training programs available in Thailand’s top destinations, you’re just one step away from mastering the art of eight limbs.