Library

Unlike Karate, Ju- Jitsu, Judo and Gung –Fu etc, Muay Thai has very few books written on its subject. Most of the original historical transcripts were destroyed or lost when the Burmese sacked Ayutthaya during the 18th Century. So much of the written word is 20th & 21st Century, concentrating mainly on modern Muay Thai with a basic mention of Muay Boran, Muay Kaad Cherk and Krabi-Krabong.

This page is a review of my own personal collection of Muay Thai & related books. My library is quite extensive so I have highlighted just a few of my favourites and will add new titles as and when available. Some of my books are rare and collector’s items however you can purchase most through www.amazon.com or for antique and rare books try www.stmarysbooks.com Books are great for reference but will never replace ‘hands on’ training. So with this in mind, use this media as a reference point and, as Bruce Lee once said, "Absorb what is useful, disregard the rest". KRU YAI SHAUN BOLAND

Title: A GUIDE TO MARTIAL ARTS TRAINING WITH EQUIPMENT Author: Dan Inosanto Publisher: Know now publishing company ISBN: 0-938676-02-4 Published: Signed first edition - 1980 Cover: Soft	view an example page
Review: Again a rare signed book from Guru Dan Inosanto’s withdrawn publications - Volume one of two illustrates most of Bruce Lee’s methods of training on the heavy bag, air shield, speed bag, top & bottom bag. The combinations are diagrammed on the apparatus, performed on the equipment and shown as an actual combative application on an opponent.
"...Remember, you are expressing the techniques and not doing the techniques. When attacked, your response is not technique 1, 2,3,4,5 – rather you simply move in like sound and echo..."
Title: ABSORB WHAT IS USEFUL Author: Dan Inosanto Publisher: Know now publishing company ISBN: 0-938676-03-02 Published: Signed first edition - 1982 Cover: Soft	view an example page
Review: This signed rare edition is the second volume from Guru Dan Inosanto’s withdrawn publications. This book reveals Dan Inosanto’s innovative teaching and training methods that transcend mere technique and liberates any martial artist to achieve ultimate goal of self-knowledge. Hundreds of photographs illustrate strengths and weaknesses in fighting structure with weapons and empty hands.
"...In fighting, I’ve always maintained that when you’re at a distance it’s reaction. When you clash or are in a grappling situation, it’s sensitivity..."
Title: JEET KUNE DO – The art and philosophy of Bruce Lee Author: Dan Inosanto Publisher: Know now publishing company ISBN: 0-938676-00-8 Published: Signed first edition - 1980 Cover: Soft	view an example page
Review: This extremely rare and signed edition was the first of a series of books that Guru Dan Inosanto wrote in the 1980’s. Guru Dan withdrew all future publications and the series are extremely rare and valuable. Jeet Kune Do – The art and philosophy of Bruce Lee, offers the readers an insight as to what Bruce Lee was teaching to his first student and friend Dan Inosanto. This book was the first to bridge the gap to Bruce Lee’s unfinished work ‘The Tao of Jeet Kune Do’.
"...Relaxation is essential for faster and more powerful punching. Let your right punch shoot out loosely and easily, do not tighten or clench fist until the moment of impact. All punches should end with a snap several inches behind the target..."
Title: TRADITIONAL BURMESE BOXING Author: Zoran Rebac Publisher: Paladin Press ISBN: 1-58160-395-9 Published: First English translation - 2003 Cover: Soft	view an example page
Review: From the author who bought you the world renowned book “Thai boxing dynamite” comes this rare view and study of the traditional art of Burmese boxing. Rare photographs and first hand reports takes you into a world where few westerners have seen. The book covers traditional Burmese boxing techniques from basic stances, kicks and strikes through advanced ‘experts only’ moves. Originally written in 1987 as ‘Burmanski Tradicionalni Ful Kontakt’ this is the first English translation.
"...Burmese boxing in its current form has hardly changed over the centuries. Boxers do not wear gloves, they are barefoot, and almost all kinds of blows are allowed, including head-butting..."
Title: MUAY THAI – The essential guide to the art of Thai Boxing Author: Kru Tony Moore Publisher: New Holland publishers Ltd ISBN: 84330-596-8 Published: First edition - 2004 Cover: Soft	view an example page
Review: The long awaited book from highly respected Kru Tony Moore. This book covers all the fundamentals of Muay Thai and more. Great chapter on traditional techniques of which Kru Tony is a qualified master, trained in Thailand. This book is a great addition to anybody’s library and is a must read for students, fighters and instructors alike.
"...Before the introduction of boxing gloves, fighters would wrap their hands in hemp rope, which would form small knots across the knuckles of the hand and up and down the inside and outside of the forearm similar to the chainmail used by Knights of old. Punching then differed from modern methods in that the hands were used to slash or cut as well as to deliver heavy knock-out blows..."
Title: A GOLDEN SOUVENIR OF MUAY THAI Author: Joe Cummings Publisher: Asia books ISBN: 962-7987-23-9 Published: First edition - 2003 Cover: Soft	view an example page
Review: A colourful photographic look at the art of Muay Thai. This book presents an overview of the various traditions and aspects of our art and includes a good historical section.
"...More than the average sport or martial art elsewhere in the world, Muay Thai makes up a total way of life for the boxers, who often begin living in training camps full-time while still in their pre-teens..."
Title: THE ULTIMATE BOXER Author: Christy Halbert, Ph.D Publisher: ISI Publishing ISBN: 0-9630968-5-0 Published: First edition - 2003 Cover: Soft	view an example page
Review: This book takes you beyond basic punches. The Ultimate boxer is for all those interested in boxing principles, from amateur boxers to professionals, from fitness boxers to martial artists, from boxing coaches to boxing aficianados. Dr. Christy Halbert is a certified, elite-level USA boxing coach. She has coached the U.S National woman’s team in International competition. This Olympic style manual is well written and informative and is a must for all boxers, officials and coaches.
"...Inexperienced, lazy or tired boxers are awkward and out of control. Wild boxers are scared and in their haste they often leave themselves open. However, boxing a wild opponent is a danger to you because they are unpredictable, and may score a lucky punch..."
Title: SELF DEFENCE (or the art of boxing) Author: Pro. Ned Donnelly Publisher: Wyman & sons ltd ISBN: N/A Published: First edition - 1897 Cover: Hardback	view an example page
Review: Another rare find for my collection, a self defence book of the late 19th century. Predominantly using Queensbury rules boxing techniques there are still a few gems in this book including how to use a bullock's bladder as a punch bag! Back in the 19th century fortified wine was regarded as healthy hence the following excerpt on training:
"...You take a walk for a mile and a half out and a mile and a half in, and return home and eat a good breakfast; amuse yourself in walking moderately and sparring till dinner time, when you must avoid eating a great quantity. Drink wine mixed with water while you are at dinner and a glass of hock afterwards..."
Title: KICK BOXING – MUAY THAI: The art of Siamese un-armed combat Author: Hardy Stockmann Publisher: Ohara publications Incorporated ISBN: (LCCCN) 75-36053 Published: 1976 – Second printing Cover: Soft
Review: This was my first book on Muay Thai which I purchased back in 1976. The title is a bit misleading but due to the popularity of American kick-boxing no doubt this was a good selling point. This particular edition is extremely rare although I do believe a re-print has been launched recently through Asia books in Bangkok. The book covers the history and traditions of Muay Thai and has some excellent action photographs (225 in all). There’s even a fight ratings list for both Bangkok stadiums, Rajdamnern & Lumpini, dated June 1975.
"...A capable fighter’s purse is sometimes supplemented by a gambling system known as “dermpun.” The two opposing camps, each confident of a victory, deposit an equal amount of money with a ring official before the fight. Many of the boxer’s followers participate in this form of wager and chip in with small amounts, to make up the sum agreed upon. The winner will take all, loser gets nothing..."
Title: MUAY THAI – The most distinguished art of fighting Author: Panya Kraitus & Dr. Pitisuk Kraitus Publisher: Panya Kraitus ISBN: 974-86841-9-9 Published: Copyright 1988 Third edition 1992 Cover: Hardback
Review: Often referred to as the “Bible of Muay Thai” no self respecting Muay practitioner and enthusiast should be without this book. The book covers all aspects of modern day Muay Thai with sections on traditional Mae Mai and Luk Mai. There are also sections on massage, Wai Kru & Ram Muay, musical instruments and Kruang Ruang. Overall, an excellent book that covers all aspects of Muay Thai serving as a reference for both student and instructors alike.
"...The art of Thai boxing is a self-defense (sic) technique belonging especially to the Thai people. It did not arise from a flash of enlightenment on the part of a sage, nor were its methods hit upon accidentally; Thai boxing is a branch of knowledge which has been in existence as long as there have been Thais..."
Title: THAI BOXING DYNAMITE Author: Rebac Zoran Publisher: Paul H. Crompton Ltd - London ISBN: N/A Published: Copyright 1983 – 1st English Edition 1986 Cover: Soft
Review: After training in Thailand for several months in 1983, Yugoslavian Rebac Zoran decided to pen this now popular book. Covering the basics of Muay Thai there is a good section on clinching techniques. Well photographed throughout this is a ‘must have’ book for any collector.
"...The way Thai boxers kick the bag is very imaginative and it is difficult to describe it with photographs. This can only be learned by visiting a Muay Thai camp..."
Title: MUAY THAI – A living legacy Author: Kat Prayukvong & Lesley D. Junlakan Publisher: Spry Books ISBN: 974-88553-7-6 Published: First edition 2001 Cover: Soft
Review: Volume 1 of 3 proposed volumes – This book gives a complete overview of the history and traditions of Muay Thai. The techniques section is excellent and offers the reader the Thai name for all the techniques.
"...The Muay Thai stance (Jot Muay or Jarot Muay) is the basic ready-for-action position. You must practice the correct form of adopting it until you can do so with accuracy and ease..."
Title: MUAY THAI – Advanced Thai kickboxing techniques Author: Christoph Delph Publisher: Frog Ltd ISBN: 1-58394-101-0 Published: 2004 Cover: Soft
Review: Originally written in German this English translation is very good. The photographic section on Mae Mai Luk Mai techniques is particularly good. There is also some sound advice on counter techniques. I found this to be a great all round reference book.
"Counter tactics are simultaneously defensive and offensive techniques. The success of an opponent’ technique can be avoided by a faster one, or an attack can be first warded off and followed up by a quick counter"
Title: FIGHTING STRATEGIES OF MUAY THAI Author: Mark Van Shuyver with Kru Padro Solana Villalobos Publisher: Paladin Press ISBN: 1-58160-358-4 Published: 2002 Cover: Soft
Review: Rather than just show basic Muay techniques this book reveals actual fighting strategies and tactics as taught in the boxing camps of Thailand. There is a particularly good chapter on the strategies of the four types of fighter.
"Understanding the four primary types of fighter is the key to strategy in Muay Thai. The four types, as defined by Villalobos, are aggressive, counter, elusive and tricky. The styles of the four types are intrinsic. Many fighters do not even know that they exhibit a readable fighting personality, yet all do"
Title: MUAY THAI – KICKBOXING Author: Chad Boykin Publisher: Paladin Press ISBN: 1-58160-320-7 Published: 2002 Cover: Soft
Review: This book covers basic training drills and there is a nice chapter on weight training exercises & programmes. Some complex sparring, pad and clinch drills make up this comprehensive book.
"The only way to improve your combat skills is by direct practice, which includes sparring and pad work. However, all other things being equal, the stronger athlete will prevail in a fight or any other athletic competition. In the dark ages, coaches were afraid of recommended weight training for fear of slowing their athletes down. In the past several years, however, weight training has been accepted as a powerful training supplement for athletes in nearly every sport"
Title: ULTIMATE MUAY THAI Author: Bob Spour Publisher: Crowood press ltd ISBN: 1-86126-671-5 Published: 2004 Cover: Soft
Review: At last a book from one of our own countrymen and highly respected chief instructor of the Phraya Pichai Muay Thai camps. A great section on the History of Muay Thai, this book goes on to explain the fundamental techniques and includes chapters on ring-craft, coaching and judging. This is a ‘must have’ book for anyone’s collection and serves as a great reference book for student and instructor alike.
"A coach can either make or break a fighter, in some cases even if the fighter has tremendous natural ability. Natural ability is an asset but not having confidence in that ability is almost as bad as not having it at all! So it is important that a coach understand (sic) his role in the development of the student and will embody these principles and pass them on through sound physical and psychological training methods to his student or fighter under his care..."
Title: MUAY THAI – Thai boxing Author: Paul Collins Publisher: Chelsea House Publishers ISBN: 0-7910-6870-6 Published: 2002 Cover: Hardback
Review: This is more of a ‘how to do’ quick reference guide as opposed to a comprehensive book on Muay Thai. Aimed mainly at the younger generation and beginners it does serve as a quick reference and gives a basic overview of the fundamentals of Muay Thai. A nice page on how to choose a club is included.
"Because Muay Thai is a full-contact sport, students must learn how to take a hit as well as how to deliver one. Of all the Martial artists, Muay Thai fighters are possibly the best conditioned. This is because their training is extremely hard, and their bodies have to withstand blows to almost every part of the body"
Title: CIVILIZED WARRING – Fundamental kickboxing techniques Author: Peter ‘Sugarfoot’ Cunningham Publisher: Ragnar’s books ISBN: 0-9649331-0-1 Published: 1995 Cover: Soft
Review: Surprisingly for a kick-boxer, Sugarfoot Cunningham has an appreciation and in-depth knowledge of Muay Thai and this no doubt attributed to his success as a world class fighter. The book covers all the fundamentals of kick-boxing but sways heavily on Muay techniques. Peter has a unique way of explaining and expressing each technique and combination and although this lightens the read it still maintains a professional overtone.
"There are many similarities between kick-boxing and life in general. Like the fact that success is usually a combination of a number of factors, and not one trait alone. I’ve seen some really, really talented fighters, guys who make me look bad, not succeed because they lack the work ethic it takes to be the best. Maybe they don’t have the heart, or a big enough goal to shoot for. Talent goes a long way, but talent without drive, without inspiration, without hard work, is going to fall by the wayside"
Title: BOXE FRANCAISE SAVATE – Martial art of France Author: Philip Reed & Richard Muggeridge Publisher: Paul H. Crompton ltd ISBN: N/A Published: 1975 – REPRINTED 1995 Cover: Soft
Review: This book gives an overview of the French art of Savate which dates back to the latter part of the 19th Century. Using punches and kicks this is an essential introduction to a tough and elegant sport.
"To trace the beginnings of French boxing we have to look back to the end of the 18th century when French sailors are known to have adapted a specialised style of fighting using very high kicks, sometimes with a hand on the ground for balance. This may have developed from contact with martial arts in the East..."
Title: KICKBOXING – A framework for success Author: Pat O’Keefe Publisher: Summersdale ISBN: 1-873475 23-3 Published: 1st edition 1997 Cover: Soft
Review: This is an in-depth manual of the fundamentals of kick-boxing. It covers; basic techniques, timing and distance, power and speed, sparring and conditioning and more.
"The jab/cross combination is the perfect blend of speed and power. It should form a part of every fighter’s arsenal. Practice it on both the bag and the focus pads until you can throw it smoothly with real venom."
Title: ADVANCED KICK-BOXING – The cutting edge Author: Pat O’Keefe Publisher: Summersdale ISBN: 1-84024-181-0 Published: 2002 Cover: Soft
Review: Following on from his first volume “Kick-boxing – a framework for success” Pat shows us strategies and game plans to become a champion kick-boxer. Chapters on fight domination, visualisation, coupled with close range fighting techniques and knockout combinations make this a ‘must have’ book for anyone’s collection.
"You need to work on three areas: the elimination of deficiencies using a realistic schedule to improve; honing your best weapons with precision training and adding refinement; and the acquisition of skills and knowledge so that you grow into a champion"
Title: BOXING Author: R.G Allanson - Winn Publisher: A.D Innes & Co - LONDON ISBN: N/A Published: First edition - 1897 Cover: Hardback
Review: 19th Century book on Queensbury rules pugilism. Giving instruction on technique, movement, timing & countering and an interesting section on training. The author has also written a section on Savate (French kick-boxing) which had only just originated around the time the book was written. It is interesting to note some of the authors comments regarding Savate. It would be fascinating to have read the authors comments had he seen Muay Thai in action!
"...the first thing is to get the blood into a thoroughly healthy state, for when there is congestion in any organ there is a weak point at once." "A man is constructed to stand on both feet, and in that position is most secure and readiest to get about with rapidity: directly you place him on one leg you restrict him to hopping, weaken his base, and so render him liable to be toppled over with great ease..."
Title: JEET KUNE DO KICK-BOXING Author: Chris Kent & Tim Tackett Publisher: Know now publishing company ISBN: 0-86568-120-1 Published: 1986 Cover: Soft
Review: Chris Kent is a third generation instructor of Jeet Kune Do, personally trained by Dan Inosanto since 1973. Together with Tim Tackett, who has been studying martial arts since 1954, they have written this very informative book on the art of kick-boxing. Mainly aimed towards street defence this book offers a whole range of training drills that can be adapted within a training syllabus. There are some great sections on hand techniques including hand-trapping and parrying. Utilising some of Bruce Lee’s philosophies and training methods, this book is a great addition to anyone’s library.
"...Sparring is like a game of physical chess. It can be compared to a conversation between two individuals in which an exchange of dialogue continues back and forth, until it is ended somehow. It is both rhythmic and un-rhythmic, and it includes pauses, interruptions, etc. When you are sparring you have to problem-solve. It requires instant analysis, decision making, speed in carrying out an action in a fraction of a second, and the ability to react and adjust to the situation as it changes..."
Title: ASIAN FIGHTING ARTS Author: Donn F. Draeger & Robert W. Smith Publisher: Kodansha International ltd ISBN: 0-87011-079-9 Published: First edition 1969 - Sixth printing 1973 Cover: Hardback (Cloth bound)
Review: This I have to say is one of my all time favourite books and written by two of the greatest authors on Martial arts, Draeger & Smith. This book represents a combined total of over 50 years of historical research, interviewing, observation, travel and personal participation in the arts. The authors wrote this book in 1969 and, although many martial arts have progressed, it offers a wonderful insight and legacy on the Asian fighting arts. The chapter on Thailand is a little brief and it is my general feeling that the authors, coming from a traditional background may have seen Muay Thai as a little brutal. Certainly their comments regarding the ‘Teep’ as being “…Invariably a weak, relatively slow action…” bears little resemblance to the actual technique and I can only guess that the authors briefly saw a match and were commenting on the first round where the Nak Muay is purposely slow in order to ascertain his opponent’s weaknesses. The chapter does however have an interesting section on ‘Krabi-Krabong’ and, curiously, Judo.
"...Krabi-krabong (“sword & staff fighting”) is an integrated weapons system hundreds of years old and formalised since 1936 as part of the curriculum of the College of Physical Education under the title “Folk arts”. Although its beginnings are unknown, it probably sprang from Sino-Indian origins on the battlefield..."