Traditional Sports in Thailand

The traditional sports activities in Thailand reflect the Thais' lifestyle. Some of these originated from their agricultural lifestyle while others from royal ceremonies and religious festivals. Handed down from one generation to another, traditional Thai sports are one of the factors that strengthened the bond among Thais.

Thai boxing, also called Muay Thai, is one of the traditional Thai sports gaining popularity in other countries. In this martial art, fighters will use bare feet, knees, elbows and gloved fists. The competition focuses more on the application of fighting techniques rather than physical prowess. Furthermore, sword and pole fighting are also common in Thailand. Almost always, these combat sports are often accompanied by traditional musical Thai instruments.

Bull fighting is also common in Thailand, especially in the South, and is usually held for local festivals. Boat racing is another Thai sport, usually held in October and November.

For summer months, Thais enjoy kite flying activities and turned it into sports by holding kite fights. Kite flying dates back in 13th or 14th century in Thailand and was most popular sometime 1850s when the incumbent king granted permission to people to fly their kites in the grounds near his palace.

Takraw is another sport that Thais enjoy and is played every day and everywhere. In this game, players have to keep a rattan ball on air using only their heads, elbows, knees and feet.

Enjoy watching, or even participating, in these Thai sports whole year round! While you are in Thailand, you may want to check out one of the properties available in Chiang Mai to be your Thailand residence. There are various real estate companies, such as Chiang Mai Lifestyle Services, that can assist you in this endeavour.

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