. These three bows can
take on a different significance with each fighter, but in our gym, we think of them
as paying respect to your teacher and gym, your family, and finally to your deity.
The fighter then begins an elaborate dance-like ritual called the Ram Muay. The
fighter goes through many complex motions, which often imitate animals or
professions. In the SuriyaSak Ram Muay, we go through motions imitating a
swallow, a hunter, a soldier, and an executioner.
The Ram Muay originated back in the days before there were rings. Initially, these
motions were just the fighter warming up, stretching, and testing the ground of the
predetermined fighting area. Over time, these transformed into the elaborate rituals
that they are today.