Like other striking martial arts tournaments, Muay Thai is considered a professional sport with several weight classes for its competitors.
Muay Thai is a famous striking martial art used especially in mixed martial arts, self-defense, etc. It is known as the art of the eight limbs since Thai Boxers can use punches, elbows, knees, kicks, and more to hurt their opponent. Nowadays,
This article discusses the various Muay Thai weight classes for men and women. Stay tuned!
What Are the Different Muay Thai Weight Classes?
Muay Thai is an ancient martial art that was used on the battlefield in the 13th century. But since the 16th century, it has become popular as a striking sport with several weight classes, as mentioned below.
Professional Muay Thai Weight Classes
| Professional Muay Thai Weight class | Weight limit in pounds | Weight limit in kilograms |
|---|---|---|
| Mini Flyweight | 100 to 105 lbs | 45.3 to 47.6 kg |
| Flyweight | 108 to 112 lbs | 49 to 50.8 kg |
| Bantamweight | 115 to 118 lbs | 52.1 to 53.5 kg |
| Featherweight | 122 to 126 lbs | 55.3 to 57.1 kg |
| Lightweight | 130 to 135 lbs | 58.9 to 61.2 kg |
| Welterweight | 140 to 147 lbs | 63.5 to 66.6 kg |
| Middleweight | 156 to 160 lbs | 70.7 to 72.5 kg |
| Heavyweight | + 175 lbs | + 79.3 kg |
Junior Muay Thai Weight Classes
| Junior Muay Thai Weight class | Weight limit in pounds | Weight limit in kilograms |
|---|---|---|
| Flyweight | 105 to 108 lbs | 47.6 to 49 kg |
| Bantamweight | 112 to 115 lbs | 50.8 to 52.1 kg |
| Featherweight | 118 to 122 lbs | 53.5 to 55.3 kg |
| Lightweight | 126 to 130 lbs | 57.1 to 58.9 kg |
| welterweight | 135 to 140 lbs | 61.2 to 63.5 kg |
| Middleweight | 147 to 156 lbs | 66.6 to 70.7 kg |
| Heavyweight | 160 to 175 lbs | 72.5 to 79.3 kg |
Importance of Weight Classes in Muay Thai
Weight classes are crucial in Muay Thai for a number of reasons.
For starters, they make certain that fighters battle against opponents of comparable height and weight, fostering fair fighting and lowering the danger of damage.
By pairing combatants together based on weight, the playing field is leveled and more equal battles are possible.
On the other hand, Weight classes provide a framework for arranging competitions and standings. Fighters may fight for championships and progress up in the rankings by competing inside their appropriate weight classes.
This approach allows warriors to monitor their progress and chart a clear route forward.
How Do Muay Thai Fighters Maintain Their Weight Class?
Muay Thai fighters, like competitors in other combat sports, use certain methods and routines to guarantee they stay inside their weight class. Here are some examples of common methods:
- Regular Training and Conditioning: Thai Boxers follow a tight training routine that includes frequent practice sessions, sparring, and physical conditioning. This allows them to remain in shape and better regulate their weight.
- Balanced Diet and Nutrition: Thai Fighters collaborate with nutritionists or dieticians to create a balanced eating plan that fits their nutritional demands while keeping their weight under control. This usually entails eating lean proteins, complex carbs, and a variety of fruits and vegetables.
- Weight Monitoring: Thai Boxers track their weight on a regular basis to measure their development and make required modifications. They may utilize scales or body fat measuring instruments to verify they are on pace to meet the division’s weight requirements.
- Weight-Cutting Strategies: As the fight approaches, Muay Thai fighters may use weight-cutting procedures to reduce extra pounds before the weigh-in. This may involve procedures such as water manipulation and sauna treatments to temporarily lower water weight.
- Professional Advice: Many Thai Boxers work with coaches or trainers who have expertise in weight management in combat sports. These specialists assist in developing a systematic strategy specific to the demands of the particular fighter, guaranteeing they make weight without jeopardizing their health or performance.
Conclusion
Muay Thai is a well-known striking martial art that can be used in MMA, self-defense, and other situations. It is practiced worldwide and enjoys a fantastic reputation and popularity.
The art of the eight limbs has produced many ferocious fighters who can fight effectively with their elbows, knees, legs, hands, and so on. Aside from that, Muay Thai is now considered a professional sport, with contestants divided into weight classes.
Related: How Much Are Muay Thai Classes? (A Closer Look)
