In the bustling world of martial arts, belts are often seen as the ultimate badge of honour. But what about the elbow-swinging, shin-thwacking realm of Muay Thai?
Does Muay Thai have belts like other martial arts do? - Not in the traditional sense, no.
Traditional Muay Thai Ranking System
Muay Thai, the ancient art of eight limbs, doesn’t bother with belts like Karate or Judo. Historically, fighters are measured by their fight record and in-ring prowess. It's a proper tale of "show, don't tell".
United World Muay Thai Association's Stance
The United World Muay Thai Association has made it clear: there's no official ranking system. They draw a line between amateurs and pros, but that’s it. No belts, just bloody noses and bruised shins.
Hierarchy Based on Skill and Experience
Muay Thai's pecking order is hinged on skill and experience. It's not about ticking boxes on a test; it's about how hard you can kick, and how long you can last.
Use of Pra Jiads in Western Gyms
A swing from tradition, Western gyms have taken to armbands, or Pra Jiads. These colourful bands, ranging from white for the novices to blue for the veterans, help measure progress. But don't get confused, this isn't the norm in Thailand.
SKN Muay Thai's Armband System
SKN Muay Thai dabbles in armband rankings for those who prefer their noggin intact. It's a nod to modernity, yet doesn’t hold a candle to Thai tradition.
Shirt-Color System at Easton Training Center
Enter Easton Training Center's rainbow of shirts: white, yellow, orange. In a world void of belts, this system helps students track progress without having to face the Muay Thai gauntlet.
Bang Muay Thai's Structured System
Bang Muay Thai’s structured ranking revolves around technical chops. Here, the focus is on precision, not pieces of coloured cloth, keeping the essence of Muay Thai truly alive.
Symbolism of Pra Jiads in Fights
In the heat of battle, Pra Jiads are donned for luck and loyalty, not rank. Colours vary, reflecting gym traditions, adding personal flair rather than a measure of skill.
Progression Through Training and Performance
In Muay Thai, progress is earned through sweat, sparring, and success in the ring. No painless path or shortcuts, just sheer grit and determination.
Lack of a Unified International Ranking System
No global ranking body regulations here, leading gyms to carve their own path for students who steer clear of fighting. It’s every gym for itself in the pursuit of progress.
Is there any form of ranking at all in Muay Thai?
Informally, yes - skill and experience speak louder than belts, with armbands and shirts marking progress in some Western gyms.
Why doesn't Muay Thai adopt a belt system like other martial arts?
Muay Thai relies on fight records and practical skill. The tradition values real-world achievement over formal exams.
Are Pra Jiads the same as belts in Muay Thai?
No, Pra Jiads are worn for symbolism - luck and gym loyalty, rather than rank.
