The Influence of Thai Boxing on the Human Body
In its homeland, Thai boxing is considered, quite literally, a cure for all ailments: it is practiced in correctional facilities for the behavioral rehabilitation of inmates, to combat excess weight, and in the treatment of addiction in specialized clinics. The basis of this practice lies in the body's ability to produce an increased amount of endorphins in response to intense and stressful exertion.
Endorphins, also known as "hormones of joy," are synthesized in the pituitary gland in response to psycho-emotional stimuli and stress. A deficiency in them can lead to the development of depression, anxiety, and other nervous disorders. People with consistently high levels of endorphins are characterized by a balanced, optimistic disposition and an absence of aggressive behavior.
Humans need endorphins to counteract stress: they reduce pain sensitivity, increase endurance, protect the psyche, and in large quantities, induce feelings of euphoria and bliss. It is because of the pleasure, and the feeling of calmness and security that arise from the effects of endorphins, that many people "get hooked on" sports.
The natural production of endorphins and dopamine after intense physical exertion, especially when combined with risk (adrenaline production), aids in the therapy of anxiety and aggression. Furthermore, it accelerates recovery from drug, gambling, food, and alcohol addiction. The mechanism behind any addiction is tied to these "feel-good" hormones, which in turn affect the brain's dopamine receptors. It is these receptors that determine the level of bliss based on hormone levels.
When a person uses a drug or scratches off the coveted squares on a lottery ticket, these receptors detect the surge of hormones. Logically, we can simply replace alcohol, cigarettes, or a tasty donut with a source of hormones and neurotransmitters that is more beneficial for the body and soul – a solid workout. Naturally, this does not mean that a person with a gambling addiction should go to a Thai boxing championship to place bets.
There is another, pedagogical side to using Muay Thai to solve acute social issues. The fact is that many individuals, moving in disadvantaged circles, simply do not know how to control and direct their aggressive, sexual, and leadership impulses without breaking the law. In this case, Thai boxing teaches them to release excess energy in the gym, not on the street. Regular participation in any sport cultivates discipline, accustoms one to a chain of command, and fosters respect for partners, coaches, and others you interact with during training.
We have established that Muay Thai strengthens the psyche, but it also has a beneficial effect on the body. It is a very balanced martial art that keeps the entire musculoskeletal system in tone, helps adolescents and young adults with spinal problems (scoliosis, kyphosis, etc.), improves metabolic processes, and strengthens the cardiovascular system, ligaments, and muscles. In Muay Thai, one must coordinate arm and leg movements, maintain balance, and develop speed and reaction time, and training naturally develops these qualities.
Furthermore, compared to classic boxing, where the main impact is concentrated on the torso, neck, and head, Muay Thai involves the entire body. The impact load is distributed more evenly, meaning individual parts are less likely to be injured. Thus, despite being a very tough sport, Thai boxing is relatively safe in terms of injuries during the training process.
Thai boxing, of course, helps with weight loss. This is not only due to the natural reduction in cravings for sugary and high-calorie foods (a universal and easily accessible source of endorphins), but also because of the high energy expenditure during workouts. Unlike running or weight training, which can achieve similar results for one's figure, Muay Thai is less emotionally taxing due to its variety of exercises, excitement, and competitive spirit.
It is the best sport for those who find monotonous fitness boring. If a fitness routine is interesting and engaging, there is a greater chance that a person trying to lose weight will not abandon their training and will achieve their goal. For this same reason, Thai boxing is an ideal option for children: they don't get bored, they easily learn not only to perform the required movements correctly but also to control their emotions and to obey their coach and senior teammates without question. Summarizing all of the above, we can confidently say that we have something to learn from the cheerful Thais, as their boxing can improve not only physical but also emotional health!