The Bando Thaing Animal System incorporates nine animal characteristics and is introduced to a student who is practicing Bando when he or she reaches the first level of achievement, or the Black Belt. The nine animal system is unique to the Bando Thaing teachings in America where as more traditional Burmese Bando includes more than nine animals.
The culture of Burma and its people was largely focused on qualities related to animals and the Burmese highly revered various animals. Animals have been a focal point in many other Asian cultures, such as China and India, which have had an influence as well. One can identify the influence of animals in traditional dances as well as in combat. The animal system uses strategies and techniques based on a selection of animal characteristics. Bando Thaing incorporates the use of weapons during fighting and the techniques are in accordance to the animal traits.
The American Bando Thaing style includes the following animal systems: Boar, Bull, Cobra, Eagle, Panther, Python, Scorpion, Tiger and Viper. Each animal system is mastered by an individual who as been personally trained by Dr. Maung Gyi, who introduced Bando to America. Eventually, these masters will take up an apprentice Master to teach the system to.
The names of the animals are used to characterize forms in the martial art. For example, the Python has the ability to crush, strangle and grip in which the practitioner will incorporate in his fighting form. The Tiger is known for clawing and ripping while the Viper form is flexible. The animal techniques in Bando emphasize form rather than aesthetics as the forms are for functional and combative use.