Gracie Jiu-Jitsu & Muay Thai are two distinctive branches of martial arts that originated in different parts of the world. Their techniques, philosophy & purpose are different from each other, & yet there are considerable similarities that unite them under the category of martial arts.
Origin
When & where did it all start?
● Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is a specialized technique developed by a family known as the Gracie family who came from Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) back in the early 20th century.
● Muay Thai originated from Thailand during the early 16th century & was centralized around King Naresuan’s warriors.
Techniques
Since the central purpose of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is to defend oneself against a bigger & stronger opponent, & Muay Thai’s is to defend against & attack simultaneously one’s opponent in order to render them defenseless, their fighting techniques are sure to differ.
Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Techniques:
● Centered around a self-defense concept, the techniques focus on routine offensive circumstances generated in order for the practitioner to defend themselves through blocks, diversions & necessary attacks to take on their opponent.
● It requires the practitioner to cognitively decide their next moves in split seconds, hence the sport not only helps in one’s body coordination, but also trains one’s mind to respond decisively.
● Suitable for all ages, Gracie Jiu-Jitsu techniques can be used to aid kids practicing self-defense & self-defense for women.
Muay Thai Techniques:
● The primary focus is on striking & punching the opponent through the “eight limbs” technique – using one’s elbows, shins, fists & knees.
● Since traditional Muay Thai stemmed from military warfare, the techniques rely on maximizing mass power using the limbs through the rotation of the hips.
● The practitioners of this combat sport build up their body stamina & strength through rope-jumping, weight-lifting & weight resistance exercises such as sit-ups, push-ups etc.
Leveling Up
Gracie Jiu-Jitsu & Muay Thai have different structures of leveling up their rank.
● Gracie Jiu-Jitsu has its own designed “belt system”. As such, while they don’t necessarily follow a conventional system of gauging a practitioner’s efficiency, they have to learn the fundamentals of the Gracie Jiu-Jitsu self-defense program before they get their blue belt.
● In Muay Thai, it is up to the trainer’s discretion to decide when their student is competent enough to receive the mongkol (headband), which signifies that the student can now represent in a ring.
Similarities
Both branches belong to the martial arts category &, while there are some core differences, the similarities lay in the spirit that goes into the sports:
● Both have gained global recognition for their individual techniques, despite their diverse origins.
● The amount of discipline going into physically & mentally conditioning oneself for each of the martial arts sports requires serious dedication & commitment, which only a few can maintain.
& to top it all off, due to their popularity, there have been many aspirants who have invested their time & money to boost the martial arts practice, as can be seen by our expert Gracie Jiu-Jitsu training services & facilities at Royce Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy in Dubai, where we ensure our learners reap the most benefit from our highly trained coaches. You too can partake in our Gracie Jiu Jitsu training programs, which are available for both adults & children. We also offer a dedicated ladies class & coach, so that women can receive thorough training in sports like kickboxing & Muay Thai in a more comfortable environment.
