The Thai's rightly state that, "The foot, though a weapon in and of itself, can easily be damaged because of the small bones that make up the foot, but the shin is a large and powerful bone and when conditioned can become as hard as wood."

Unlike most martial arts, Muay Thai has developed a unique but basic form of block and defense against a variety of offensive techniques. Many martial art systems have over the years begun to adapt much of the Thai fighting system, many calling it their own.

Muay Thai is classified as one of the most powerful styles of martial arts known today because Thai fighters utilize the maximum power in every technique which is generated by the twisting of the hips and the turning of the waist in execution of the movement. Bone strength, endurance, and stamina must be achieved in order to become a proficient Thai fighter.

The art of self-defense where the elbows, feet, fists, and knees are used to pummel the opponent. The fists and feet are used for long-range combat while the elbows and knees are used for short-range combat.
 

Muay Thai is sometimes called "Thai Boxing" or "Thai Kickboxing" because the techniques of this style are not practiced in sets commonly referred to as "forms" (Kata's or Koso's) which can be found in Japanese, Chinese and Korean martial arts. They are, however, practiced in much the same manner as in regular western boxing (hence the addition of the term "boxing" ), which allows the practitioner to develop power, speed, and a spontaneous reaction to attacks. The practice of "forms" do not properly develop the qualities which are the most essential elements in becoming a good Thai combatant. The simplicity of the footwork and techniques are some of the main reasons why Muay Thai has been considered to be one of the most effective styles of Asian martial arts