The Importance of Form and Relaxation

Recently we have discussed in class the importance of building a foundation first and not rushing to learn Muay Thai techniques.

We were working a basic combo series based off of a jab-cross (ie. jab-cross-right knee-left elbow). I stress to my students that first form must be correct this is why we shadow box first. It is my job as an instructor to go around and correct the mistakes I see.

Then, as the students get more comfortable with the combo and form they must concentrate on completing the combination while being as relaxed as possible. My reason for this is if you are relaxed then speed and power will follow. The moment one becomes tense then speed and power are sacrificed along with form. So when practicing a combo or technique you must remember to do the follow:

1. Practice shadowing boxing first
2. Be sure that the form is correct
3. Relax and have fun
4. Don't be in rush to learn new techniques or combos...when you rush that's when mistakes are made.
5. Once you are doing this smoothly while shadow boxing, try it on the pads
6. Once this is done successfully on the pads, move on to live target during partner drills
7. Then once this is done comfortably try it during a sparring session.
   

Of course there's a little more to it than what's listed above, but that is a good outline for practicing your combos and techinques for Muay Thai.

Chok Dee! (Good Luck!)

Coach Blas