The centuries-old martial art of Muay Thai (also known as Thai boxing) is more than just Thailand’s national sport; for many locals, it is also a way of life. Often called the “art of eight limbs” due to its use of fists, elbows, shins and feet, Muay Thai is thought to have been used by soldiers to defend the nation against invaders throughout the history of Thailand.
In the past few decades, however, Muay Thai has become hugely popular around the globe as both a combat sport and way of staying fit, with many foreigners travelling to Thailand to learn more about the sport.
Whether you are looking for a sparring session or preparing to enrol in an intensive training camp, here are some Phuket Muay Thai gyms and camps for you to train like a local.
Tiger Muay Thai and MMA
If you want a taste of the real Muay Thai training experience, head over to Tiger Muay Thai and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) camp, arguably the best that Phuket (and Thailand) has to offer. The facility attracts world-class trainers and people from all over the world for a reason — you won't find a more gruelling Muay Thai camp anywhere else in the country.
The camp is set over 0.8 hectares, encompassing separate facilities for weight training, fitness, and dedicated combat arenas for fighters of all shapes and sizes. Fighters will be matched according to their fighting experience so you won’t find beginners sparring with advanced fighters — unless it is a mentor-mentee situation of course. Each session lasts approximately 2.5 hours and consists of traditional fighting techniques, combinations as well as fitness and conditioning. Those who wish to stay on-site can also do so; there are various accommodation options available.
Over the years, the training camp has widened its range of classes offered to include Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, kick-boxing and even a dynamic performance enhancement programme for professional fighters and atheletes.
Don't be afraid of encountering a language barrier — due to the international status of the camp, all classes are conducted in English.
Sumalee Boxing Gym
For beginners, big gyms like Tiger Muay can come off as intimidating. If that’s the case, you may want to consider smaller gyms like Sumalee Boxing Gym instead.
Located in the centre of the east coast near unspoilt countryside, Sumalee Boxing Gym promises an authentic training experience on its expansive 1.2-hectare grounds, at least a 15-minute drive away from most tourist attractions. Its isolated and quiet setting has its perks: with zero distractions around, you will be better able to focus on your training.
Sumalee Boxing Gym offers the complete Muay Thai experience, with a camp that offers in-house accommodation, food and even access to their weights studio and yoga studio for total mind and body wellness.
Classes are held twice per day, six days per week, and you can even arrange private lessons for a more intensive experience. Sumalee Boxing Gym’s programmes are popular with couples and families alike, proving that Muay Thai is truly a sport for all ages.
Kingka Muay Thai
Located in the Rawai region in southern Phuket, Kingka Muay Thai is a great place to completely immerse yourself in the Muay Thai experience while enjoying some of the most beautiful scenery that Phuket has to offer, with the serene Nai Harn Lake just a 10-minute drive away.
The camp has 15 bungalows and shared rooms adjacent to the rings, and holds one morning and one afternoon session each day for six days a week, led by more than a dozen trainers. Each session lasts about two hours and caters to all different levels of experience.
For those who are trying to lose weight or stay fit, Kingka Muay Thai also provides a customised meal planning service. Meals are then served at a local restaurant called Cashew Nut, located 300 metres away. Besides Cashew Nut, there are numerous other restaurants, massage parlours and bars that are close to the camp, perfect for those who wish to unwind after a long day of training.
