Academy Menu

Supplemental Lessons

Attacking the Body

Tactic of Lethwei

Lethwei allows strikes with the fists, elbows, knees, shins, and the head, making it an incredibly brutal and aggressive fighting style. Lethwei fighters often employ a strategy of targeting an opponent’s weak points to gain an advantage.

The liver, spleen, and kidneys are common targets in Lethwei. Striking these areas can be highly effective in causing pain and incapacitating an opponent. A well-placed strike to these organs can lead to excruciating pain, loss of breath, and potentially a knockout. The liver, spleen, and kidneys are relatively unprotected and positioned in the abdominal region. Striking these areas can cause serious damage, as there is limited muscle and tissue protecting these organs. Striking the liver, spleen, or kidneys can weaken an opponent and create openings for further attacks.

The liver is situated in the upper-right quadrant of the abdomen, just below the ribcage. The liver is a soft, vascular organ with a rich blood supply. When it’s struck with force, the blood vessels inside can rupture, causing internal bleeding. A powerful blow to the liver can result in severe pain, immediate incapacitation, and even a knockout. The pain from a liver shot can be excruciating and makes it challenging for the recipient to continue fighting.

The spleen is located on the left side of the abdomen, beneath the ribcage and behind the stomach. It’s also relatively exposed. The spleen is a delicate organ that contains a significant amount of blood. A blow to the spleen can cause intense pain, dizziness, and a loss of energy. When struck, it can rupture, and a ruptured spleen can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Location of the Liver

Location of the Spleen

The kidneys are relatively vulnerable targets in the human body. Striking the kidneys with well-placed punches, kicks, knees, and/or elbows can cause significant pain and discomfort, disrupt an opponent’s breathing, and potentially lead to injury or incapacitation. A solid strike to the kidneys can weaken an opponent’s overall physical condition. It can be challenging to continue fighting at full strength if one of the kidneys is injured or damaged.

Kidney strikes can disrupt an opponent’s posture and balance, making it more difficult for them to defend against further attacks. This imbalance can create openings for follow-up strikes or takedowns. The pain from a well-executed kidney strike can be excruciating, which can distract and disorient an opponent, making it harder for them to focus on their own offensive or defensive techniques. Repeated kidney strikes can cause cumulative damage over the course of a fight, potentially leading to exhaustion and decreased performance.

Location of the Kidneys

In lethwei and other combat sports, fighters aim to strike their opponents in these vulnerable areas to inflict pain, weaken their opponents, and potentially secure a knockout. Liver shots, in particular, are renowned for their effectiveness in incapacitating an opponent due to the excruciating pain they cause. Fighters often target these areas because they are difficult to defend against and can significantly impact an opponent’s ability to continue the fight.

It is important to note that Lethwei and other combat sports involve inherent risks. Strikes to the sleen and liver are legal within Lethwei’s rules. However, well-trained fighters are skilled at protecting themselves and reduce the chances of suffering severe injuries to these vital organs. In training as well as in competition, safety should be 0f paramount concern with instructors taking the proper precautions and where appropriate, having medical professionals on hand to assess and treat injuries as needed.

Thut Ti Lethwei Global Academy Disclaimer

The information provided on Thut Ti Lethwei Global Academy (lethwei.net) is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. The content on this Website is not intended as a substitute for instruction or direction from a professional combat sports coach or martial arts instructor. The content is also not intended as a substitute for medical direction, advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a health care professional. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or th e safety of participating in any physical activity.
Not Medical Advice: The content on this Website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Consult a Professional: It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new activity program, diet, or exercise routine. Your individual training goals should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider who can provide personalized recommendations.
Assumption of Risk: Participation in physical activity and exercise carries inherent risks, and by using the information provided on this Website, you acknowledge and voluntarily assume these risks. Always exercise caution and common sense when engaging in physical activities.
Accuracy of Information: While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, the content on this Website may not always reflect the most current research or medical guidelines. We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the information presented.
Responsibility: You are responsible for your health and safety when engaging in any combat sport, martial art, or fitness program, individual exercise, or dietary practice discussed on this Website. Thut Ti Lethwei Global Academy, its authors, contributors, and affiliates disclaim any liability for any injury, loss, or damage incurred as a result of the use or reliance on the information provided on this Website.
Changes to Disclaimer: Thut Ti Lethwei Global Academy reserves the right to modify or update this disclaimer at any time without prior notice. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer periodically for any changes.
By using Thut Ti Lethwei Global Academy website, you agree to the terms of this disclaimer. If you do not agree with these terms, please refrain from using this website.

An Introduction to Myanmar

What is Lethwei?

Myanmar Traditional Boxing, or Lethwei, is widely regarded as one of the world’s most aggressive and powerful martial arts. With a history spanning over a thousand years, Lethwei is a distinctive form of Southeast Asian combat also known as the “Art of 9 Limbs.” This name reflects its use of a wide array of techniques, including headbutts, bare-fist punches, kicks, elbows, knees, clinches, throws, traps, and chokes.

Unlike other Southeast Asian martial arts such as Muay Thai in Thailand, Kun Khmer (Pradal Serey) in Cambodia, or Muay Lao in Laos, Lethwei’s unique approach incorporates an exceptionally broad arsenal of techniques. Its bare-knuckle fighting style and allowance of headbutts set it apart, creating a dynamic and raw combat sport with fewer restrictions. This uninhibited rule set enables Lethwei fighters to utilize strategies and tactics unavailable in other martial arts traditions, offering greater freedom of expression while also increasing the physical risks involved.

The absence of gloves and inclusion of headbutting amplify both the impact and the danger of Lethwei. Fighters can cause significant damage through techniques like trapping, choking, and throwing—maneuvers often banned in other combat sports. The sport’s defining characteristics—its range of techniques, the distance at which they are executed, and the choice of impact areas—underscore the distinctiveness of Lethwei.

For the people of Myanmar, Lethwei is far more than just a combat sport; it is a vital aspect of the nation’s cultural heritage and a profound source of pride. Rooted in Myanmar’s history, Lethwei symbolizes resilience, strength, and the enduring spirit of its people. As such, it holds a special place in the national identity and continues to be cherished as a living tradition that connects modern Myanmar to its ancient past.

Lethwei is often misunderstood by outsiders. Some incorrectly label it as “Thai Boxing with headbutts” or attempt to promote modified versions of the art that dilute its authenticity. These interpretations fail to grasp the essence of Lethwei, which is deeply entwined with the history, culture, and people of Myanmar.

Authentic Lethwei is practiced in many gyms and clubs across Myanmar, each with its own unique approach to training and technique. Despite these variations, all share a common foundation rooted in the official rules and traditions of the sport. Practitioners and enthusiasts should remain vigilant against the spread of “pseudo-Lethwei,” which misrepresents the true spirit of this martial art.

Lethwei’s unrestrained nature and profound cultural significance distinguish it as one of the most unique and respected fighting arts in the world. For those who seek to understand its essence, Lethwei offers not just a lesson in combat but a deeper connection to the soul of Myanmar.