Yok Khao Guard

Primarily used as a defense to the infamous Muay Thai turning kick, Muay Chaiya has developed and enhaced this basic guard into not only an effective defense, but a formidable attack. Good balance is neccessary, gained by constant practice of the basic exercises and the Yang Sam Khum.

Guard

Your hands should be the same as for the right guard in the Tha Kru.

Legs

The Yok Khao guard in Muay Chaiya is designed to recieve strong attacks (usually turning kicks) primarily witht he knee. When we practice, we lift the knee as high as possible, closing the gap between the elbow to make the defense tight. So if someone throws a mid or high level kick the will hit either the knee or the elbow. For lower attacks it may be necessary to lower the knee to intercept the attack, this takes more practice but with time, will be automatic. By lifting the heel back, the shin forms a 45 degree angle, so if a kick does strike the knee, the potential damage will be reduced.

• Right knee should be lifted at least to waist level. The higher the better, ideally meeting the right elbow.
• The knee should be stright in front (not centered) of your hip
• Lift the heel as high/far back as possible (as close to you butt as possible!)
• The standing leg should be bent, the foot at a 45 degree angle to form a solid, balanced stance. Remember, practice, practice practice!

Foot

Whilst we aim to block using the knee, sometimes this isn't possible so protecting the foot, shin bone and muscles is important. By lifting the foot and the toes, the tendons on top of the foot become tense and protect the vulnerable top part of the foot and shin. The muscles on the shin become tense, decreasing the chance of damage.

• Lift the foot and toes up straight.

Lifting the toes also prepares you for delivering quick 'chat' front kicks, that can be used in attack or defense.

Usage and Practice

The best way to practice the Yok Khao guard is the 10 basic exercises, and the Yang Sam Khum. These both focus on bringing the knee up straight infront of the hip, however, in reality, you need to be able to adapt the height and angle of your knee to the situation at hand. Once you can execute the movement correctly in the 10 basic exercises and the Yang Sam Khum, it is possible to mix things up a little. Imagine that some one is attacking you with a variety of kicks, and practice executing the guard against these kicks.