How to Clinch in Muay Thai

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By Donnell Peavy
eHow Contributing Writer

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Muay thai is also called the science of 8 limbs. Originating in Thailand, it employs use of the fists, elbows, knees and legs for offense and defense. Talk of muay thai in the U.S. began in the 1980s, and the sport has had an immense gain in popularity over the past 12 years. Muay thai has become synonymous with the stand up fighting component seen in MMA today. One of the techniques muay thai is best known for is the palm, or clinch. From the clinch, a wide variety of techniques, most commonly knee strikes, may be launched at your opponent. For this reason, clinch fighting plays an important role in muay thai, as whomever establishes the dominant position is also the one in the best position to mount a devastating offensive.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Step 1

Using your right hand, reach behind your opponent’s ear, then grasp the crown of his head. By having control of your opponent’s head, you can control his motion, as where his head goes, his body must follow.
Step 2

Press your elbow and forearm into your opponent’s shoulder. Your forearm should run parallel to his neck and head--there should be little or no space between the two, as that will make it easier for him to escape.
Step 3

Repeat these steps with the left arm, placing your left hand on top of your right hand on the crown of his head.
Step 4

Using both hands, push down on his head, forcing his chin into his chest. From this position, you have control over your opponent’s movement. Using your left leg, step backward, then quickly step 90 degrees to the right while turning your body and pivoting on the ball of your right foot. Notice that your opponent’s body is forced to move with you.

Tips & Warnings

Be sure to have your arms as tight in on your opponent’s neck and shoulders as possible; the less space he has, the better off you are.
Make sure that you grab the crown of your opponent’s head. Do not grab his neck. Grabbing his neck leaves his head completely free and you will be unable to adequately control him.
Place one hand on top of the other on the crown of his head. Do not interlock your fingers, as doing so can result in some of them getting broken.

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