Nang Khrok

The “Nang Khrok” training method is a unique and innovative practice introduced by Khru Nil Paksi, a legendary Muay Chaiya boxer hailing from Chaiya district, Surat Thani, Thailand. Nil Paksi was deeply rooted in the traditions of the esteemed Sor. Paksi boxing school, a family legacy of Muay Chaiya mastery. His father, Phet Paksi, and his son, Niam Paksi, were both celebrated fighters who carried the torch of this martial art. Nil Paksi also shared a close bond with Prong Chamnongthong, a fellow fighter who earned the title "Meun Muay Mee Cheu" and gained widespread acclaim.

Nil Paksi’s story is one of resilience and ingenuity. Born with congenital myopathy, a condition that caused one of his legs to function less effectively, he faced challenges that might have sidelined others. Instead, Nil Paksi transformed his perceived weakness into a formidable asset. His impaired leg became a powerful weapon, delivering devastating kicks that were likened to an ax cutting down opponents. This ability, born out of necessity, exemplified his creativity and determination in adapting to his circumstances.

Despite his success, Nil Paksi was acutely aware that his unique fighting style was shaped by his restricted mobility. This understanding led him to develop the “Nang Khrok” training technique, an approach designed to teach fighters how to overcome limitations and sharpen their skills under challenging conditions.

In the Nang Khrok training method, practitioners sit on an upside-down rice mortar, a traditional Thai object that adds a cultural element to the exercise. Their faces are covered in white powder, which serves both a symbolic and practical purpose. The goal of the training is to fend off attacks from one or more opponents attempting to remove the powder or knock the practitioner off the mortar. This intense practice promotes several key attributes essential to Muay Chaiya:

Balance – Fighters learn to control their center of gravity and maintain stability, even under constant pressure from different directions.

Unyielding defense – As they are unable to retreat or adjust their position, practitioners develop the ability to hold their ground against relentless attacks.

Quick thinking – The presence of multiple attackers requires swift decision-making, encouraging fighters to strategize and prioritize their responses effectively.

Although Nil Paksi demonstrated exceptional skill and tenacity, he faced societal barriers. When the opportunity arose for boxers from Chaiya district to compete in Bangkok before King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), Nil Paksi was overlooked. The district governor decided against selecting him, fearing that sending a fighter with a visible disability would bring ridicule and diminish Chaiya’s reputation. This decision, rooted in societal prejudice, denied Nil Paksi the chance to showcase his talents on a national stage.

Despite this setback, Nil Paksi’s determination remained unshaken. He attempted to travel to Bangkok independently, but financial constraints forced him to abandon the journey, leaving him heartbroken. Nonetheless, he continued to dedicate himself to the art of Muay Chaiya, training countless fighters at the Sor. Paksi school. His influence shaped the next generation of boxers, including his son, Niam Paksi, who eventually made it to Bangkok. Niam’s success reignited interest in Muay Chaiya and solidified its legacy as a cornerstone of Thailand’s rich martial arts history.

Through his life and work, Nil Paksi exemplified resilience, innovation, and a deep commitment to his craft. The Nang Khrok training method stands as a testament to his creativity and determination, preserving his legacy as one of the most influential figures in the history of Muay Chaiya.

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Through the insights of Lamp Sakkapoom, co-author of the Muay Chaiya Manuscript, delve into the ancient practices of Muay Boran and Muay Chaiya, uncovering approaches that transcend the boundaries of Muay Thai.

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