174 | Culture Ways of Life and Wisdom
Krabi-Krabong
Martial Sport
The martial arts of Krabi-Krabong (Sword and Club fighting) are regarded as the art of using weapons
to protect the nation in the ancient times. After the country became peaceful, Krabi-Krabong were developed
into training and fighting sport with the use of tool imitated from traditional weapons such as Krabi (sword), Dab
(backsword), Phlong (club), Ngao (halberd), Dang (shield), Khen (forearm shield), Lo (buckler), short stick, and
spear. They are made of metal, wood, rattan or animal skin materials for safety. Previously known as a sword
competition or spear competition, it was called “Krabi-Krabong” after the reign of King Rama I of Rattanakosin.
“Krabi-Krabong” is a generic term for martial arts weapons. Krabi refers to all short weapons such as
swords, backswords, bucklers, arm shields, daggers. Krabong covers all long weapons like sticks, halberds,
spears, and lance. Krabi-Krabong weapons are also classified into two types. Khrueng Mai Ram (weapons for
ritual dance), covered with gold leaves and decorated with beautiful glasses, is used for the teacher worship ritual
at the beginning of the play. Another type is Khrueng Mai Tee (weapons for fighting), without any decorations,
used for skill challenges. • Tee Lai Pai Klab
Stance (hitting back
and forth stance
• Wai Khru Thep Phanom Stance