A good contest is decided by application of techniques rather than brute force. There is a pre-fight "Wai Khru" rite with traditional Thai instruments, a Java pipe, double-ended drums and cymbals, providing musical accompaniment. Mae Mai Muai Thai
(types of blows) is an artful science requiring years of learning. Often as entertaining as the action in the ring is the reaction of the spectators who yell and shout encouragement to the boxers as the excitement mounts.