"Muay Thai" written by Arnaud van der Veere

Arnaud van der Veere Podcast

The book "Muay Thai" written by Arnaud van der Veere offers a detailed exploration of the history, techniques, and philosophies surrounding the sport of Muay Thai. Below are the main components of the book:

1. The Sport of Muay Thai: A deep dive into Muay Thai as a traditional martial art, tracing its roots back to ancient India and its evolution into a modern sport. The book discusses the physical and mental demands of the sport, highlighting the importance of balance, strength, and strategy
2. History of Muay Thai: This section explores the historical development of Muay Thai in Thailand, from its early origins as a form of combat to its transformation into a professional sport. The impact of Thai kings like King Naresuan on the development of Muay Thai is also discussed​
3. Philosophy of the Fighter: Van der Veere emphasizes that Muay Thai is not just about physical combat but also about mental discipline and personal growth. Fighters are encouraged to focus on self-improvement, balance, and inner peace
4. Cultural Differences in Fighters: The book contrasts the mentalities and training styles of Eastern and Western fighters, exploring how cultural backgrounds influence approaches to combat and training
5. Techniques and Training: Detailed instruction on essential Muay Thai techniques such as fist and arm techniques, kicking, kneeing, and clinching. The book also covers training methodologies, including the importance of warming up, explosive training, and cooling down​
6. Women in Muay Thai: Van der Veere advocates for the inclusion of women in Muay Thai, discussing the physical and psychological differences between male and female fighters and how training can be adapted for women​
7. Muay Thai and Mental Health: The book explores how Muay Thai can help alleviate psychological problems by allowing fighters to channel their stress and emotions into physical activity​
8. Training Concepts: The "30-minute concept" is introduced, emphasizing a structured approach to training that includes phases such as technical, reaction, speed, and cardio training​

In summary, Arnaud van der Veere’s "Muay Thai" is a comprehensive guide that not only provides technical instruction but also delves into the history, philosophy, and cultural aspects of the sport, making it an essential resource for both practitioners and enthusiasts.

Support the show