Unlock exciting ninja parkour skills! Designed for complete beginners, this training guide provides a taste of the parkour basics, blending strength training, flexibility, and fundamental movements. Over just five days, you’ll build the skills, confidence, and fitness needed to take on full parkour training.

Training Summary

1 – What to expect

Your Mission

At the end of the 5-day parkour training, you would have practiced four categories of parkour moves: vaulting, jumping, climbing, and rolling. This provides you with a nice toolbox to play around with obstacles at a basic level. These skills can be used in obstacle races and may, in some cases, save your life.

Safety

While parkour is thrilling, safety should always be a top priority. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Know Your Limits: Don’t attempt advanced moves until you’ve mastered the basics. Progress at your own pace to avoid injury.
• Use Proper Technique: Focus on form and technique to ensure you’re executing movements correctly and safely.
• Train with Others: Whenever possible, train with a partner or group. They can provide assistance, feedback, and help in case of an emergency.
• Choose Safe Environments: Practice in areas that are free from hazards. Avoid slippery surfaces, sharp edges, and unstable structures.
• Warm Up and Cool Down: Always begin with a proper warm-up to prepare your body for physical activity and end with a cool-down to aid recovery.

Realistic Progress

Mastering complex parkour moves in a short time can be overwhelming. Focus on making steady progress rather than achieving perfection immediately. For example, instead of mastering wall runs in a day, aim to feel comfortable with the basic technique and height. Celebrate small successes to stay motivated.

Training Session Duration

Each session should last about 60 – 75 minutes, including warm-up and cool-down periods. This structure ensures a comprehensive workout without overwhelming beginners.

While the training is meant to run consecutively, you are free to adjust the frequency to you schedule.

Tips when you’re training Alone…

Stay motivated – Training alone requires self-discipline. Set clear, achievable goals for each session and track your progress. Reward yourself for meeting milestones to stay motivated.

Manage the anxiety of people watching you – It’s natural to feel self-conscious when practicing in public. Focus on your training and remember that most people are curious and impressed, not judgmental. Find less crowded locations or train with a friend if you feel uncomfortable.

Create a Supportive Environment – Create a routine that includes motivational music, a designated training area, and regular practice times. Join online parkour communities for support and feedback.

2 – 5-Day Parkour Quick Beginner Training Guide

Guidelines for Each Day & Rest time between sets

• Warm-up: 6 minutes of dynamic stretching or light cardio to prepare the body.
• Strength Training: 15 minutes of basic exercises to build foundational strength. Aim for 1-2 minutes of rest between sets. This allows enough time for muscles to recover partially so you can perform the next set effectively.
• Flexibility: 6 minutes of stretching to improve range of motion and prevent injuries. Rest periods between flexibility exercises are typically shorter, around 30 seconds to 1 minute, as these exercises focus more on maintaining range of motion and avoiding stiffness.
• Basic Movement Practice: 20 to 45 minutes of practicing a specific parkour move with clear milestones and progress markers.

Day 1: Foundation (Precision Jump & Safety Roll)

Estimated Training Time: 60 minutes

1. Warm-up (6 min)
2. Strength training (15 min)
3. Flexibility (6 min)
4. Parkour Move: Precision Jumps (15 min)
5. Parkour Move: Safety Rolls (15 min)

Warm-up (6 minutes)

Strength Training (15 minutes)

Flexibility (6 minutes)

Basic Movement: Precision Jumps (15 min)

Precision jumps are fundamental in parkour, focusing on accuracy and balance. This exercise helps build confidence in landing and improves spatial awareness.

Goal:

• Successfully land on the target without stumbling or losing balance.
• Aim to achieve a stable landing in the first session. There is no point compromising balance for distance.

Setup:

• Choose a target that is 1-2 feet away, appropriate for beginners.
• Ensure the landing area is clear of obstacles and safe for landing.

Execution:

1. Approach the target with a controlled run-up.
2. Jump explosively, aiming to land softly and precisely on the target.
3. Use both feet to land simultaneously on the target.

Technique Tips:

• Maintain a straight posture throughout the jump to aid balance and control.
• Focus on landing with bent knees to absorb impact smoothly.
• Keep your eyes focused on the landing spot to enhance accuracy.

Basic Movement: Safety Rolls (15 min)

Safety rolls are essential for learning how to fall safely and reduce impact during parkour movements.

Goal:

• Perform the roll without hesitation or impact on the ground.
• Aim for a fluid and controlled roll from start to finish.
• Being able to roll from a squatting position is good enough for the first session.

Setup:

• Find a clear, soft surface such as grass or a gym mat.
• Ensure there are no obstacles in the rolling path.

Execution:

1. Start in a squatting position, feet shoulder-width apart.
2. Tuck your head towards your chest and roll diagonally over one shoulder.
3. Use your arms to protect your head and distribute impact along your back.

Technique Tips:

• Maintain a smooth, continuous motion throughout the roll.
• Keep your chin tucked to avoid hitting your head.
• Roll over the shoulder, not directly on the spine.
• Practice slowly at first, then gradually increase speed.
• Practice rolling from both sides to develop versatility and comfort. But as a beginner, it’s normal to be better on one side than the other.

Day 2: Vaulting & Safety Roll

Estimated Training Time: 60 minutes

1. Warm-up (6 min)
2. Strength training (15 min)
3. Flexibility (6 min)
4. Parkour Move: Safety Vault (20 min)
5. Parkour Move: Safety Rolls (10 min)

Warm-up (6 minutes)

Strength Training (15 min)

Flexibility (6 min)

Basic Movement: Safety Vault (15 min)

The safety vault is a fundamental parkour move that focuses on safely and efficiently overcoming obstacles. This exercise helps build confidence in clearing obstacles and improves coordination.

Goal:

• Successfully clear the obstacle smoothly and safely without losing balance or control.
• Aim to achieve a fluid motion with control within the first session.

Setup:

• Choose a low obstacle (such as a low wall or rail) that is stable and safe for practice.
• Ensure the area around the obstacle is clear of hazards.

Execution:

1. Approach the obstacle with a controlled jog straight on.
2. Plant your lead hand and opposite foot firmly on the obstacle (e.g. right hand and left foot, or left hand and right foot)
3. Bring your trailing leg through as your body moves over the obstacle, ensuring it clears smoothly.
4. Land softly on the other side, resuming your run smoothly. If you’re comfortable, you can perform a safety roll after this.

Technique Tips:

• Weight Distribution: Your hand and foot should support a significant portion of your weight.
• Soft Landings: Focus on landing with bent knees to absorb impact smoothly.
• Focus: Keep your eyes on the obstacle and landing spot to enhance accuracy and control.

Basic Movement: Safety Rolls (15 min)

At a higher level, safety rolls absorb impact safely and smoothly when you’re transitioning at speed and landing from height. Building the skill to roll and transition into a safety roll is important.

Goal:

• Execute the roll smoothly and seamlessly from different starting positions (e.g. standing, after a precision jump). Do NOT jump from height at this stage.
• Aim for fluidity and control throughout the entire rolling motion.

Setup:

• Find a soft, clear surface such as grass or a gym mat.
• Ensure there are no obstacles in your rolling path.

Execution:

1. Begin standing or with a small jump. Then transition into a crouched position, feet shoulder-width apart.
2. Tuck your head towards your chest as you initiate the roll over one shoulder.
3. Keep your arms close to your body and use them to guide the roll.

Technique Tips:

• Maintain a continuous and controlled motion throughout the roll.
• Practice rolling from various starting positions (standing, kneeling, or crouching) to improve adaptability.
• Focus on landing softly and distributing impact along your back.

Day 3: Basic Climbing Skills + Previous Parkour Moves

Total Training Time: 60 minutes

1. Warm-up (6 min)
2. Strength training (15 min)
3. Flexibility (6 min)
4. Parkour Move: Low Wall Climbs (20 min)
5. Parkour Move: Choose Your Moves (10 min)

Warm-up (5 min)

Strength Training (15 minutes)

Flexibility (6 minutes)

New Basic Movement: Low Wall Climbs (20 minutes)

Low wall climbs introduce basic climbing techniques and build upper body strength essential for parkour.

Goal:

• Reach the top of the wall (LOW wall) smoothly without slipping or losing balance.
• Aim for a controlled ascent and descent with each attempt.

Setup:

• Find a low wall or ledge that is stable and safe to climb.
• Ensure there is enough space to maneuver around the wall.

Execution:

1. Approach the wall with a steady pace.
2. Use a step-up technique by placing one foot on the wall’s edge.
3. Follow with a controlled pull-up motion to reach the top of the wall.

Technique Tips:

• Focus on maintaining balance and control throughout the climb.
• Use your legs to push and assist in the upward movement.
• Once your chest is above the wall, lean your body weight over the of the wall to conserve strength. But be careful not to lean excessively that you top over to the other side.

Previous Basic Movements: Your Choice (10 min)

Pick any of the parkour moves you need more practice in and practice the techniques.

Day 4: Practice and Progression

Total Training Time: 60 – 75 min

1. Warm-up (8 min)
2. Strength training (15 min)
3. Flexibility (6 min)
4. Parkour: Advanced Practice (30 min)

Warm-up (8 min)

Strength Training (15 minutes)

Flexibility (6 minutes)

Advanced Practice: Combining Precision Jumps, Safety Vaults, and Rolls (20-30 Min)

Combining moves helps to create fluid sequences, improving the ability to link parkour techniques naturally. If you need more practice with certain parkour moves, make sure to practice.

Goal:

• Integrate precision jumps, safety vaults, and rolls into smooth sequences.
• Develop the ability to transition between different movements with ease.

Setup:

• Arrange obstacles to allow for the combination of movements in a controlled environment.
• Ensure all obstacles are stable and safe.

Execution:

1. Start with a precision jump to a designated target.
2. Transition smoothly into a safety vault over a nearby obstacle.
3. Conclude the sequence with a safety roll upon landing.

Technique Tips:

• Focus on maintaining control and fluidity throughout the sequence.
• Keep movements deliberate and avoid rushing.
• Ensure proper form for each individual move within the combination.
• Practice each sequence slowly at first, then gradually increase speed.

Example Sequences:

1. Precision Jump -> Safety Vault -> Safety Roll
2. Safety Vault -> Precision Jump -> Safety Roll
3. Precision Jump -> Precision Jump -> Safety Roll

Feedback & Self-Assessment:

• Reflect on each sequence and identify areas for improvement.
• Adjust form and technique as needed based on self-assessment.
• Aim for consistent improvement in fluidity and control over time.

Day 5: Flow Practice

Total Training Time: 60 – 75 min

1. Warm-up (6 min)
2. Strength training (15 min)
3. Flexibility (6 min)
4. Parkour: Flow Practice (30 min)

Warm-up (6 min)

Strength Training (15 min)

Flexibility (6 min)

Flow Practice: Putting It All Together (45 Min)

Flow practice involves creating smooth transitions between different parkour techniques, focusing on fluidity and creativity.

Goal:

• Integrate all learned movements into seamless flow sequences.
• Develop personal style and creativity in movement.

Setup:

• Use a variety of obstacles to allow for diverse sequences.
• Ensure the training environment is safe and free from hazards.

Execution:

1. Start with a basic movement, such as a precision jump.
2. Transition into a safety vault, followed by a roll.
3. Continue the sequence with additional movements, experimenting with different combinations.

Technique Tips:

• Focus on maintaining continuous movement without pauses.
• Experiment with different sequences to find what feels natural.
• Prioritize safety and control over speed.

Example Sequences:

1. Precision Jump -> Safety Vault -> Roll -> Precision Jump
2. Safety Vault -> Precision Jump -> Roll -> Safety Vault
3. Roll -> Precision Jump -> Safety Vault -> Roll

Feedback & Self-Assessment:

• Reflect on each flow sequence and identify areas for improvement.
• Adjust form and technique as needed based on self-assessment.
• Aim for consistent improvement in fluidity and creativity over time.

This 5-day program is designed to provide beginners with a strong foundation in parkour, building the skills and confidence needed to progress to more advanced techniques.

3 – Ready to Level Up Your Skills?

Completed the 5-Day Parkour Quick Training Guide? You’ve taken the first steps towards mastering the basics of parkour, building your strength, agility, and confidence. Now, it’s time to elevate your training and fully embrace the path of the modern ninja.

Introducing The Comprehensive Parkour Program

Our partner’s highly-rated program, Learn Parkour And Free Running – Basic to Intermediate Skills, is designed to take your training to the next level. This program aligns perfectly with the Way of Ninja philosophy, focusing on developing cross-functional skills that will transform you into a modern-day ninja.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Dynamic Techniques: Learn amazing parkour techniques safely from the comfort of your backyard. From shoulder rolls to balance work, and from vaulting to wall techniques, this course covers it all.
• Flips and Tricks: Master the art of backflips, wall flips, front flips, and butterfly kicks, ensuring you’re ready to tackle any challenge with ninja-like precision.
• Professional Feedback: Get expert feedback on your training videos from a team of experienced parkour coaches. This personalized guidance will help you refine your skills and progress faster.
• Lifetime Access: Enjoy full lifetime access to the course materials, including 4 hours of on-demand video, assignments, and articles, accessible on mobile and TV.
• Community Support: Join a member’s-only community where you can connect with fellow parkour enthusiasts, share your progress, and get additional tips and motivation.

Join the Program Today!

By enrolling in the comprehensive Learn Parkour And Free Running – Basic to Intermediate Skills program, you’re investing in a unique training experience that will set you on the path to becoming a modern ninja. Whether you’re a beginner looking to build a solid foundation or an athlete seeking to cross-train and enhance your performance, this course is perfect for you.

As a new student of parkour this class had a lot of helpful info and starter tips for me.

– Johann J C.

Basic to Intermediate Skills

Ready to train the full range of ninja parkour skills?

From rolls to balance work, from vaulting to wall climbs, and from tricks to flips this course covers it all.

• Get expert feedback from experienced Parkour coaches
• Share your progress with an exclusive community
• Build a strong set of basic to intermediate skills

Join the full program (discounted)

The post 5-Day Parkour Quick Training Guide for Beginners appeared first on Way Of Ninja.

Hey Ninjas,

I’m taking an indefinite break from Way Of Ninja. Thank you for your support over the years.

Why the sudden decision?

At the end of November, last year, I flew to Thailand alone for three weeks. I wanted some solitude and direction. Things weren’t working out.

Way Of Ninja had been my passion project for ten years. Two years ago, I quit my job to work on it full-time. But, I failed on three counts.

One, I wasn’t able to produce helpful content frequently.

Two, the pressure to live up to my pre-injury self was too much.

Three, this venture wasn’t making enough money to put food on the table and pay my bills (including student loans).

1. I wasn’t able to produce helpful content frequently

There was a reason why articles were somewhat irregular on Way Of Ninja. I was experiencing an immense mental block — the imposter’s syndrome. It got much worse after the injury and this ultimately sabotaged Way Of Ninja’s progress.

Part of my ethics as the founder was to back what I write with training experience. The problem is — how do you cross-train in over ten activities just to experiment what works? That’s what I was trying to do; to walk the talk, so to speak.

So, when the shoulder injury happened, I lost my identity as a cross-training “ninja”. The journey back was filled with setbacks. Every article I wrote came with emotional baggage and I felt immense hypocrisy. This slowed down the writing process and eventually spiralled me back into depression.

I eventually hired a few writers, while still adopting high editorial standards. However, the low budget meant spending time on editing, formatting, fact-checking and optimizing for social media distribution.

2. The pressure to live up to my pre-injury-self was a nightmare

I’ve talked about how I felt like an imposter, despite training aggressively and progressing in four to five different activities (pre-injury) — despite being promoted in Aikido; completing obstacle races with above average timing; progressing well in street callisthenics; applying the basics of parkour and MovNat; and more.

But, I’ve never talked about the other health issues (besides the injury). There were and still are.

Unfortunately, in doing too much, I had to sacrifice sleep and neglect seeing the doctor when I needed to. I’ll be at the gastro department of the hospital at the end of this month. That’s all I’ll say.

But, it is best that I take some time away.

3. This venture wasn’t making enough money to put food on the table and pay my bills.

When you venture into a passion project full-time, you stop getting a salary. And, as much as I enjoyed working on Way Of Ninja full-time, I wasn’t making enough money to put food on the table and pay my bills.

Everything came from my savings.

In fact, Way Of Ninja was draining me financially. With negative trends in social media reach (especially Facebook’s algorithm), I had to pay in order to reach ninjas who were following Way Of Ninja’s page. And, when I travel to review Muay Thai training places, the costs come out of my pocket.

It’s time I made Way Of Ninja a side project again and cut back on expenses. I will be focusing on freelance writing and content marketing.

Why not just transition into doing this spare time?

I intend to. But, for the time being, I need some distance from Way Of Ninja.

I had a life and identity outside of Way Of Ninja. Along the way, somehow, my cross-training and personal identities intertwined. I’m taking the time away to rediscover and regain confidence in who I am; an identity that is separate from Way Of Ninja.

While on my solo trip, I talked with digital nomads, who made me remember my strengths as a writer and content marketer. Thus, the decision to be a freelance writer and content marketer for businesses. With that, I’ll be spending the time to hustle to pay the bills.

I’ll be too busy for a couple of months.

Nonetheless, I intend to return to Way Of Ninja eventually (in my spare time) after I regain perspective, rediscover my own separate identity, stabilise my income, and deal with the health scare.

What’s going to happen to Way Of Ninja?

Other than pre-scheduled social media posts, Way Of Ninja will be silent on all channels for, at least, the next month. This website will continue to exist.

There are still articles in the backlog that has yet to be published and I’m still getting pitches from writers. I haven’t decided what to do yet.

So, I will update you ninjas with the details by the end of next week. If you want to get the update, please opt-in to the mailing list.

Sincerely,

Logen Lanka

The post Hey Ninjas… I’m Quitting for Awhile [Announcement] appeared first on Way Of Ninja.

Are your private files — and intimate photos — really safe? What if your online drive gets hacked and leaked? What if your laptop gets stolen?

Don’t lose your privacy. Don’t get blackmailed. And don’t become a victim of identity theft.

It’s time you use an encryption cipher so strong that even the CIA and NSA use it — for top-secret classified files.

Why encrypt your files?

Passwords can be bypassed

Anyone can bypass the password protection on both your computer and smartphone. There are known hacks in Windows and other operating systems (OS). There are even cracking utilities to break into a password-protected computer.

Still, feel your files are safe behind a login screen?

Devices can get stolen or lost

Let’s not forget that USB drives and external hard disks are both easy to misplace. Laptops and tablets can be stolen.

Are you okay with anyone accessing your confidential work files?

Read on to start encrypting your sensitive files and folders — with the same cipher used for classified documents. 

What you should be doing – encryption

Encryption protects your sensitive data from unauthorised access. It does so by converting your files into complex code. Without the correct password or cipher key, no one can access your files.

But, aren’t modern computer drives all encrypted?

They are. But, bypassing the login screen of a stolen computer is still possible.

Here’s one way to bypass login for Windows 7, a disk-encrypted OS. Later versions of Windows have patched the security flaw, but you may never know if there are other vulnerabilities in any operating system.

Needless to say, USB drives and external hard drives are even more vulnerable because they aren’t password-protected by default. Imagine misplacing them when travelling abroad, only to find someone using your credit card (or cancelling your flight booking).

What you need to do is to store your sensitive computer files in an encrypted folder. Then leave this folder on your laptop, external drives, or even cloud storage server.

Who exactly needs encryption?

Regular folk

Contrary to popular belief, encryption isn’t just for people with something to hide. Regular people need to protect sensitive data too.

Sensitive data includes tax returns, bank statements, intimate photos, confidential work files, and more. It is easy to become a victim of identity theft with so much information on your computer stolen.

Professionals, activists & whistle-blowers

Even more so, there are professions that need a higher level of privacy. This means lawyers, journalists, human rights activists, auditors, medical professionals, and government contractors.

Imagine if client files fall into the wrong hands. This could mean a drastic outcome in the courtroom for lawyers. Or, if journalists get their data stolen, they could get targeted by powerful politicians. That could mean lawsuits or something much worse.

Travellers

Travellers ought to encrypt their USB drive and laptop too. If you’re travelling abroad for training, the likelihood of losing a device is higher than normal.

If you haven’t encrypted the lost device, your travel itineraries may get leaked and tampered with.

Which cipher should you use?

To secure your files, you need an encryption program that uses one of the top ciphers in the world. This list includes the AES (Advanced Encryption Standard), Twofish, and Serpent ciphers. None of these ciphers was ever successfully broken.

The safest bet is to use the AES with a key of 256 bits (instead of 128 or 192 bits).

The US government uses the AES (256 bits) to secure top-secret files. Breaking this cipher supposedly takes 2 billion years with one trillion machines testing one billion keys per second.

In theory, it’s not impossible to crack any cipher. But, the billions of years needed (by expensive supercomputers) to crack it makes your stolen encrypted files useless. Everyone will be long dead before your data is cracked.

If AES (256 bits) is good enough for the CIA, NSA, and FBI, it should be good enough for you.

Available Encryption Programs

There is a couple of software that provide encryption, including BitLocker and FileVault. These two programs come with some versions of Windows and Mac OS X 10.3 (and above) respectively.

Make use of them. Both programs use the AES cipher for encryption. And, they are perfect for regular folk.

However, if you’re in a profession that needs greater privacy, there might be a problem.

It’s not the problem with the cipher, but it has to do with possible backdoors…

The Problem with BitLocker & FileVault

There really is no telling if Microsoft and Apple have been coerced by government agencies (like the NSA and FBI) to add a backdoor to their encryption programs.

What a backdoor does is deliberately allow another way for law enforcement to bypass the encryption totally. This weakens protection because, in theory, hackers can discover and use the backdoor to access your files as well.

Historically, the FBI has asked both Microsoft and Apple to install a backdoor in their code.

While Apple has challenged the FBI’s request to do so, there is no telling what will happen in the future. As for Microsoft, the FBI has pressured them to add a backdoor to BitLocker in 2005.

In both BitLocker and FileVault, we have no idea if they’ve complied with the backdoor request. Their closed-source code doesn’t allow unbiased third-party security experts to audit it.

So, use something else if you have greater privacy needs. Here’s something that’s open-source, third-party, previously audited, and FREE.

Veracrypt

What I recommend instead is this free open-source disk encryption software – Veracrypt. It can be used on Windows, Mac, and Linux.

With Veracrypt, you’re able to create partitions on your computer, USB drive, or even external hard drive to store files containing sensitive information.

It uses the AES cipher. But, you have the option to use more than one type of encryption cipher (i.e. AES, Twofish, Serpent), one on top of the other. This makes it even more secure.

Furthermore, even the NSA cannot crack a former version of Veracrypt (Truecrypt). That tells you how strong Veracrypt’s encryption and brute-force protection is.

Veracrypt also allows you to set up the encrypted partition in a way that supports plausible deniability. What this means is that no one (other than you) can prove that the partition or data even exists. Veracrypt hides the partition and disguise it as computer random data.

For instructions on how to use Veracrypt, go to this beginner tutorial. It takes less than 10 minutes to set up an encrypted folder.

Other than lawyers, journalists, and activists, consider using this if you’re a ninja adventurer who travels to train. Keep your data safe! Get Veracrypt for free.

Note: If you’re using Truecrypt, switch to Veracrypt, which is a software fork of Truecrypt. Truecrypt is no longer updated and is vulnerable.

Want more privacy tips and practical survival hacks? Check out the Spy Escape & Evasion course by Jason Hanson, an ex-CIA agent.

The post How to Hide & Encrypt Your Top-secret Files Like the CIA? appeared first on Way Of Ninja.

Did you know that Japanese martial arts are classified as modern or pre-modern? So before you train in Japan, lets explore some martial art tems that newbies are ignorant about.

In the past, many outside the martial arts circle have used “Karate” as a catch-all phrase to refer to all Japanese martial arts. That is a mistake.

Karate is a martial art on its own that didn’t even originate in mainland Japan. It came from the Ryukyu Kingdom (now Okinawa), which wasn’t part of Japan until the invasion.

Interestingly, Karate, together with Judo, Aikido, and Kendo, are considered modern martial arts. What, then, are pre-modern Japanese martial arts?

To help you understand the differences, I’ll first be explaining these umbrella terms that designate a martial art as modern or pre-modern:

• Koryu Bujutsu
• Gendai Budo

Then, I’ll go on to explain two popular Japanese martial arts practised in the west.

• Karate
• Judo

“Old Style” vs Modern Japanese Martial Arts

Koryu Bujutsu

Koryu Bujutsu (古流武術) translates as “old style martial arts”. It generally covers military arts and sciences that were practised in pre-Meiji Restoration Japan.

These are less about self-improvement and more about defeating opponents.

Under the umbrage of Koryu Bujutsu are:

• sumo wrestling
• jujutsu (unarmed combat)
• kenjutsu (swordsmanship)
• battojutsu (art of drawing the sword)
• iaijutsu (art of mental awareness)
• naginatajutsu, soujutsu (art of the spear)

These skills were often practised with other military arts like horseback riding and swimming. There are, of course, different styles of koryu bujutsu. There are even ancient schools that specialize in different forms of jujutsu and weapon combat (check the link out for an extensive list of koryu bujutsu).

For example, jujutsu styles include Kito-ryu, Daito-ryu Aiki-jujutsu and more. There are organizations that verify the lineage of a dojo to ensure continuity, before certifying the martial art as koryu.

Koryu martial arts use the Menkyo system to grade students. This is a contrast from gendai budo that gives out martial art belt ranks.

Gendai Budo

Gendai Budo (現代武道) means “modern martial way”. The term applies to martial arts that developed post-Meiji Restoration, around 1868.

Gendai budo focuses on self-improvement first and self-defence second. The older martial arts are the exact opposite.

Also, all gendai budo martial arts use the martial art belt system to rank practitioners. This system was first used in Judo, where Jigoro Kano used black to signify dan-grade and white for the rest.

Gendai budo covers a broad range of arts such as:

• Judo (from Kito-ryu jujutsu)
• Aikido (from Aikijujutsu)
• Iaido
• Kendo (the evolved form of kenjutsu)
• kyudo (way of the bow and arrow)
• karate
• shorinji kempo (also known as kenpo)

Logen has compiled an extensive list of modern Japanese martial arts related to the samurai and ninja.

Popular Japanese Martial Arts in the West

There are many Japanese martial arts, as mentioned before. But, I’m pointing out Judo and Karate deliberately as they are common in the west and vastly different.

Beginners who make the mistake of thinking that one is the other could be in for a rude awakening.

Karate

Karate developed on Okinawa Island during the reign of the Ryukyu Kingdom. It exists as a fusion of Chinese martial arts and the original “te,” or Okinawan martial arts.

The four original branches of practice were Shotokan, Wado-ryu, Goju-ryu, and Shito-ryu. The only one that didn’t start in Shuri, Okinawa, was Goju-ryu. It began in Naha.

Then, in the 1920s, Gichin Funakoshi introduced karate into mainland Japan.

The differences amongst the styles tend to be the stances used and the number of katas practised. Some styles use weaponry, while others focus only on training the mind and body.

For example, Shotokan uses deep stances and focuses on long-range attacks. The exact opposite would be Shito-ryu, where stances are more natural and upright, and the focus is on speedy footwork. In Kyokushin, rather than evading, knockdowns are frequent. Full body contact is also encouraged.

Note: All styles of Karate are Gendai Budo (modern martial art). This is a contrast to Koryu Bujutsu (old martial art – dating before the Meiji restoration period).

Judo

Where Karate is often called a “hard” martial art, Judo is “soft.” Karate focuses on striking, while Judo focuses on grappling and throwing.

Jigoro Kano – the same man who created the martial art belt system – founded Judo. Its base art is mainly Kito-ryu jujutsu, a koryu bujutsu.

Judo uses the concept of “kuzushi no ri” (breaking of balance) to overcome the opponent.

In a stereotypical illustration, a Karateka will strike an opponent unfalteringly and aggressively. The Judoka, though, will go on the defensive then try to evade then counter with grappling and throws.

How easy is it to find either pre-Meiji or modern martial arts?

Both koryu bujutsu and gendai budo are still practised throughout the world today. However, obviously, the modern martial arts are going to be widespread.

While you might experience holding a naginata at a samurai taiken (experience) event, you’re not going to find many places that will train you to use one. Moreover, admission to a koryu martial arts dojo is difficult.

For example, the oldest koryu art – Tenshin Shoden Katori Shinto-ryu – needs its students to swear secrecy with a blood oath (keppan). Risuke Otake (pictured above on the left) is the main instructor appointed by the headmaster Yasusada Iizasa.

As for gendai budo, simply do a quick Google search of your hometown, and a karate or judo dojo will pop up somewhere close.

Want to travel for Japanese martial arts?

Want to travel to train in Japanese martial arts? Logen and I will be compiling a list of recommended places in both Japan (and around the world) for you ninja adventurers!

Note: Collaborative article written by Valerie Taylor, with edits by Logen Lanka.

The post Japanese Martial Arts Before & After 1868 — “Old Style” vs Modern appeared first on Way Of Ninja.

Khongsittha Muay Thai is a recreational thai-boxing gym in Lat Phrao district, Bangkok. They’ve hosted the famous Nak Muay Nation camp this year. And, they’ll be hosting it once more in 2018.

Unlike recreational fitness-focused gyms, Khongsittha attracts serious practitioners of Muay Thai. The crowd that trains there consist of foreigners and middle/upper-class income locals. They also offer functional training, and have partnered with Spartan Race Thailand 2017.

Here’s the review scorecard of Khongsittha Muay Thai in Bangkok. For my full experience, continue reading.

About Khongsittha & Matthew Deane

Khongsittha Muay Thai (visit website) was founded in 2013 by Matthew Deane, an Australian Thai actor and singer. He was active in martial arts and has trained in both Muay Thai and Shoto-Kai Karate.

Deane has also been an MC in the Muay Thai scene for years. Among the broadcasts he has worked for are: Thai Fight, Kunlun, Super Muay Thai, and Petchyindee. As a result, he is well-connected to fighters, promoters, and organizers.

In an interview with Vice Sports, Deane talked about how the Thai public had “zero respect for Muay Thai”. It stemmed from it being seen as a brutal sport for poor people.

Khongsittha, thus, seems like his way to educate the public on the values that Muay Thai teaches. More importantly, it gives access to the middle and upper-class locals, who want to train but not necessarily do so in a traditional fighters camp.

Since Khongsittha’s business model doesn’t rely on sponsored fighters, I’d classify them as a recreational gym. Of course, one that is well-connected in the local Muay Thai fight scene.

How to Get There?

Khongsittha Muay Thai’s website and Facebook page.

There are three options to make your way to Khongsittha Muay Thai. Here are the instructions on their website.

Address: 23 ถนนสุคนธสวัสดิ์ ลาดพร้าว กรุงเทพฯ 10230
Note to taxi driver: “ค่ายมวย คงสิทธา” อยู่ถนนสุคนธสวัสดิ์ ใกล้แยกโรงไม้ ซอยนาคนิวาส 48 ข้างปั๊ม NGV และ Mini Big C (ขึ้นทางด่วน ลงเกษตรนวมินทร์ มาทางสตริวิทยา 2)
Phone: 02-932-9911

Option A: Taxi Only

Tell the taxi driver to take the highway towards Ramintra and take Kaset Nawamin Exit.

Option B: BTS Skytrain + Taxi

Take the BTS to On Nut Station, then take a taxi from Lotus Shopping Mall via highway towards Ramintra and taking Kaset Nawamin Exit.

Option C: MRT Subway + Taxi

Take the MRT to Ladphrao Station, then take a taxi or motorbike from the subway exit (no highway) towards Ladphrao Soi 71 – Nak Niwat 48.

Show this Note to the driver if taking this route: เข้าซอย รัชดา 36 ทะลุหลังลาดพร้าววังหิน และออกถนนสตรีวิทยา 2 จะเจอ ค่ายมวยคงสิทธา ติดมินิบิ๊กซี ใกล้แยกโรงไม้

(from Khongsittha’s FAQ page)

Do schedule your class in the early afternoon, as this gives you ample time to explore two night-markets that are relatively nearby – Hua Mun Night Market and Rot Fai Market 3 (Kaset Nawamin). You’ll also avoid traffic jams associated with rush hour.

From the conversation with my taxi driver, Bangkok’s evening traffic can begin as early as 4pm and last till 9pm. The most intense traffic is between 5.30pm and 8pm.

Fiasco of a Journey to Khongsittha… without a taxi (at first)

Wondering how I made my way to Khongsittha?

I was determined to get there without taking a taxi. One, I wanted to avoid the jam at downtown Bangkok. Two, I wanted to experience taking the khlong boat (canal boat) like a local, and then take bus 156 to Khongsittha.

It would have cost me less than a US dollar if things went according to plan. Find out what happened instead…

After I got off the khlong boat at Bangkapi Mall, I could barely hear the on-goings in my surroundings. I had been standing beside the boat’s roaring engine for the past hour, and that was all I could hear.

The time showed 5:45pm and I had 15 minutes to get to Khongsittha by bus. Sure that I was relatively close by, I called Keith from Khongsittha, whose accent was strangely Californian.

“Hello, this is Logen on the line. I’ve scheduled a class via Viator at 6pm but I may be slightly late. Is it possible to push the training session to later?”

“Sure. We’ll move it to 7pm.”

“7pm? Is Khongsittha that far from Bangkapi Mall?”

“Not really. But it’s peak hour now.”

Experiencing Bangkok’s Notorious Traffic

The moment I walked out of the mall, I was greeted by a moderate traffic jam. I cursed at my decision to be adventurous and totally forgo the easier route of taking a taxi.

Not wanting to be any later, I called for a taxi via my Grab app. I should have just taken the bus instead. It wouldn’t have made a difference in my journey time.

Due to the language barrier, the driver took 20 minutes to find me. I was then stuck in traffic for 1.5 hours. During the journey, I rang Keith twice to reschedule the class. He suggested that I moved the class to the next morning.

I politely rejected his suggestion… I was already en route to the place for the past 2.5 hours.

Ironically, I did manage to avoid the notorious traffic jam at downtown Bangkok, only to get into another one after I got off the canal boat.

3 hours. That’s how much time it took because of my convoluted route to get to Khongsittha.

I’d have reached there in 15 to 45 minutes if I just took a taxi from the start (at 4.30pm), or used the routes suggested by Khongsittha.

Training Experience at Khongsittha Muay Thai (Lat Phrao)

Reaching Khongsittha After Dark

When I finally reached Khongsittha it was already dark. After eyeing the huge golden statue of a nondescript Muay Thai fighter at the entrance, I walked to the front desk to sign in.

With some time to spare, I walked around the premises to take some pictures. Seeing the murals of nak muay demonstrating various thai-boxing techniques gave me chills. It reminded me of the Muay Thai Live performance.

At 8pm, it was clear that I was the only student. In hindsight, they must have opened a slot at that time just for me.

In any case, I got to train one-on-one with three different trainers.

Trainer 1 – Warm Up & Shadow Boxing

The session began with the typical Muay Thai warm-up – running and jump rope.

Then, the first trainer demonstrated various strikes and kicks. After each demonstration, I copied what he was doing.

His way of correcting my technique was through show-and-tell (in simply-worded phrases).

As someone whose base martial art was Aikido, my evasive footwork and stance were creeping in. I was standing in a way that was not conducive to kicking quickly.

Talking about Spartan Race with Trainer 1

The training was paced with minute-long breaks after a set time of training. This helped me retain the trainer’s feedback, while I caught my breath.

It was during these breaks that my first trainer noticed my Spartan Race shirt. He was enthusiastic in telling me how he and his Khongsittha colleagues will be joining their first Spartan Sprint in July.

Trainer 2 – Pad work & Sandbag

As we moved on to pad work and sandbag training, I was corrected many times on my stance.

Especially after kicking, I withdrew my kicking leg behind the front leg (the typical Aikido defensive stance). And so, my challenge was to rewire my stance to make it optimal for offensive strikes.

That said, my second trainer articulated his feedback to my mistakes the best. After all, he had lived in Perth for some time and spoke English fluently.

He had observed that my jabs were not aligned optimally, which could result in wrist injuries. He also noticed that my jabs weren’t retracted swiftly enough. It was as though I was doing straight punches at Aikido as an uke – a lot of conscious body weight channelled through the punch. In his words, my punch felt more like a physical push.

Other than that, he helped me realize that I had been tensing up whenever I struck. What I needed to do was to relax and keep the body loose.

So, I was deeply grateful for his series of feedback. This was the trainer who had the least fights under his belt (17 fights). But, he was only eighteen-years-old.

Trainer 3 – Padwork Combos

The third trainer was pretty cool. It was with him that I got a more intensive pad work session.

Actually, I did combo pad work with all three trainers, with them shouting the various strikes and me executing. Having very little experience with striking, my coordination was honestly shit. But, I’m getting better.

Back to the Trainer 1 – Conditioning Exercises

Finally, after the pad work, I returned to the first trainer.

We ended off with conditioning exercises with push-ups, kettlebell swings and squats. It may be because I was the only student there, but he made sure to go at my pace.

After my injury, I had toned down my training intensity and consequently lowered my stamina. So, I took the trainer’s change in intensity as a positive sign.

Vibe, Facilities & Trainers – Summary of Assessment

Vibe

• Welcoming and friendly for beginners and all levels
• Feels like an actual fighters gym, though it’s recreational

Facilities

• Not air-conditioned
• Display timer that times activity and breaks
• Clean gym mats, sandbags and pads
• Toilets: Clean with shower facilities
• Lockers with locks provided for your gym duffels

Cost

Khongsittha Muay Thai distinguish their Muay Thai sessions into two types: Muay Thai for Fitness, and regular Muay Thai

Only regular Muay Thai sessions include advanced technical instruction and clinching. It also costs more.

If you’re serious about training, I’d recommend training there for a week in regular Muay Thai.

• 2-hour Muay Thai fitness session + phad thai meal from a beautiful cafe nearby (via Viator): US$53
• Muay Thai Training 7-day package (with private accommodations): US$317

Trainer 1

• Speaks some English
• No problems with communication and teaching
• Adjusts intensity to cater to each student
• Friendly; happy to talk about Spartan Race
• Corrects stance, coordination and technique issues; corrected me on the aim of my side kicks to prevent injury from kicking the sandbag.

Trainer 2 – Boss

• Fluent in English
• No problems with communication and teaching
• Adjusts intensity to cater to each student
• Friendly; makes conversation but I don’t remember owing to the intensity
• Corrects stance, coordination and technique with greater detail; corrected me significantly on jabs.

Trainer 3

• Able to speak some English
• No problems with communication and teaching
• Adjusts intensity to cater to each student
• Friendly and professional
• Corrects stance, coordination and technique, and was accommodating towards combo pad work

Opening Hours

• Opening hours: 10:00 to 22:00

Pros & Cons – What I Liked

Pros of training at Khongsittha

So, here are some things I liked about Khongsittha Muay Thai…

The training pace was just right, and the conduct of it was smooth

Khongsittha Muay Thai timed the session for activity and rest breaks. This helped to pace the training and gave time for the trainee to reflect on the feedback.

The training also felt less haphazard, unlike other gyms. There was a sense of direction in the training structure.

Awesome trainers who actively corrected mistakes & adapted to the trainee’s learning style

The trainers were friendly and make an effort to correct you. They also allow you the time to adjust to the feedback.

This is not true for all Muay Thai schools. Due to the language barrier, some trainers find it hard to correct foreign students (and may not do so).

What’s more, with Muay Thai becoming popularized as a fitness activity, some trainers don’t correct foreign students on the wrong form. The reason is simply because most of these students prioritize fitness over fighting technique.

Khongsittha trainers aren’t like that. They care if you are executing the techniques right, and they are able to communicate in English.

Different Trainer for Each Segment of Training

Different segments of the training were conducted by different trainers. This exposes you to different styles of combo pad work.

Not only that. When you have three trainers giving the same feedback in their own way, you retain the message better. It reinforces important training concepts.

Welcoming to People of all Levels & Friendly Training Environment

Many gyms proclaim to welcome people of all levels. However, the quality and enthusiasm of training often vary among an advanced nak muay and a complete beginner at some gyms.

At Khongsittha Muay Thai though, They really do mean it when they say they welcome people of all levels. My experiences there as a beginner was awesome. Farang nak muay (Foreign fighters) like Aaron Jahn have also rated it rather positively.

Well-connected to the Local Muay Thai Scene (including fighters, fight promoters, broadcasts and more)

Through their founder and trainers, Khongsittha is well-connected in the Muay Thai scene. This is an advantage for freelance fighters and people who want to train in special camps with notable people in the scene.

Cons of the place

Regular Muay Thai Training Includes Accommodation as a Package

There are two types of Muay Thai training offered at Khongsittha:

• Regular Muay Thai (includes running, clinching, sparring, and technical drills)
• Muay Thai Fitness (NO running, clinching, sparring and technical drills)

The price for training in regular Muay Thai comes with accommodations, and is thus priced higher. After deducting for private room costs, it seems the cost of training is reasonable. My only issue with it is not being able to get a non-accommodation regular Muay Thai option.

If you want training without accommodations, only Muay Thai for fitness is available for 450 baht (US$14.56). Alternatively, pay by the hour for private training at 1000 baht (US$30.13).

Not located in Downtown Bangkok

As mentioned, Khongsittha is not located near the Skytrain or Metro network. To get there, you’ll need to take a 15 to 30-minute taxi ride.

Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Train at Khongsittha?

If you’re visiting Bangkok primarily for Muay Thai, consider training at Khongsittha.

Their trainers, really, are excellent and on point with their feedback and patient. The place is friendly to all.

And, the gym is well-connected within Thailand’s Muay Thai and fitness scene.

So, if you want to pursue Muay Thai seriously for a few days, weeks, or months, while not going completely hardcore, this is a great place to do it.

Complete Beginners

If you’re a complete beginner, Khongsittha is the place to train at.

Among all other gyms, Khongsittha is the only one that corrected me multiple times. The trainers all articulated and demonstrated what I was doing and explained what I could do to improve.

Not once did any of them get frustrated.

I can’t emphasize how much I learnt when training at Khongsittha, despite it being the Muay Thai for fitness package.

Here are their regular Muay Thai packages; it covers advanced techniques, clinching, and includes a private room for you to stay at. Without getting a package, you’ll only be able to join Muay Thai for fitness.

Muay Thai Practitioners interested in Techniques

Recreational gyms tend to attract locals and tourists who only train for fitness and fun. But, not at Khongsittha.

The place attracts a crowd that seems committed to actual Muay Thai; not the fitness variant.

So, if you’re travelling to Bangkok just for Muay Thai, train there twice daily, for at least a week, with this 7-day training and accommodation package.

Prospective Freelance Fighters

Because of Khongsittha’s connections and their superb trainers, check them out before making a decision. I can’t make a solid recommendation here because I’m not an independent fighter.

But, they do have an active team of fighters training at Khongsittha!

Who Should Train Elsewhere?

If you’re a tourist who’s unwilling to get out of downtown Bangkok, consider other gyms within the city centre. Also, assuming you’re an independent fighter on a budget, there are fighter gyms that are cheaper to train at.

Bottomline & Conclusion

Although Khongsittha’s regular Muay Thai training sessions can only be bought with accommodation packages, their quality of instruction makes it worth it.

Check out their Muay Thai packages. It combines twice-a-day sessions with private accommodations at Kiatthada House & Resort (located beside Khongsittha). This saves you the hassle of travelling for training daily. Also, with the package pricing, the cost per training session is significantly lower.

Definitely consider training there for a couple of days.

• Twice-daily Regular Muay Thai + Private Room [7-day package]
• Twice-daily Regular Muay Thai + Private Room [29-day package]
• One session of Muay Thai Fitness + Phad Thai at Reverie Cafe (via Viator)

If you’d like just one session of training, I recommend walking in for their Muay Thai Fitness class. It’s cheaper than the Viator package, which includes a delicious phad thai meal from a mid-scale cafe beside Khongsittha.

If you’d like some insight into their lengthier training programs, watch this space for Owen Cooper’s interview. Unlike me, he has trained longer and participated in Nak Muay Nation.

Khongsittha Muay Thai Class + Accommodations

Book your Muay Thai + Private Room package with Khongsittha right now.

Pick either 7 or 29 days…

Book Your 7-Day Training Here!

(I wanna train for 29 days instead!)

The post Khongsittha Muay Thai in Bangkok – Experience & Review appeared first on Way Of Ninja.

We all know that feeling. Your heart rate picks up, your hands are sweaty, and you have a queasy feeling in your stomach.

Anxiety. Self-consciousness. Lack of confidence. 

We have all felt it before.

You might get that dreaded pang of anxiety at your first-day training in a new dojo. Perhaps, even when talking to a stranger. No matter the circumstance, the feeling remains the same.

Taking action to get rid of fear and gain confidence

Anxiety can greatly restrict the way you live your life. You might not go out as often as you’d like because of personal fears, or you might never want to sign up for a Parkour class because of the fear of being ridiculed.

A lot of people believe that they are stuck with anxiety. They say things like “Well I am just a nervous person,” Or “I always worry, it’s not my fault.”

Excuses are easy, but trying to change yourself can be hard.

The truth is, no matter if you are dealing with a small amount of anxiety, or a lot of it, you can do something about it.

Introducing Comfort Zone Challenges – The Scientifically Proven Way To Get Over Fears

A comfort zone challenge is simply a conscious decision to put yourself into a situation that causes you to feel anxious; facing stressful situations to get out of your comfort zone.

For example, one comfort zone challenge advocated by Tim Ferris, the famous business coach, and author, was to lie down in a public place. We recommend thirty seconds, but he says to start with ten.

“Just lie down and remain silent on the ground for about ten seconds.”

Even reading about this can give most of us anxiety!

But, the idea is, if you lie down, and commit to being there for thirty seconds, you will see that there was really nothing to be afraid of. At worst, people look at you like you are a bit weird. Then you can get up, and go about your day.

Most people would never put themselves in a situation like this! Most people will cling to their comfort zone no matter what.

More about Comfort Zone Challenges

Till, the creator of the Comfort Zone Crusher, has a whole Ted Talk on this subject, that you can watch below.

How Is The Comfort Zone Challenge Backed By Science?

The comfort zone challenge is similar to an idea in clinical psychology, that is called Exposure Therapy.

The basic idea of Exposure Therapy is to expose people to what makes them afraid in a situation that is 100% safe. It is used to help people recover from PTSD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and social anxiety.

The great thing is, you don’t need to buy expensive therapy to get the benefits of exposure therapy. You can simply do it yourself with the comfort zone challenge.

How to apply comfort zone challenges in your own life?

If you’ve read this far, then you understand that comfort zone challenges have the power to change your life.

If you feel that fear, worry or general anxiety is holding you back, then you need to imagine yourself if you were free from those restraints.

We all know the importance of fitness, and keeping your body able so you can be strong, flexible, and healthy.

Well, imagine fear as a mental disease. If you were a muscular guy but for some reason, you had skinny legs, you’d know that to be one hundred percent balanced, you’d need to start doing some squats.

If fear is holding you back, imagine who you’d be without it…

The best workout for fear is to get out of your own comfort zone, gradually. This is how you start applying it to your own life.

1

Identify situations that make you feel anxious

First, identify an area that you feel anxiety in. It could be starting out a new martial arts class, or even feeling self-conscious when training in Parkour in public.

2

Commit to making change

Second, you need to commit to wanting to change. You have to say to yourself,

“I no longer want to feel fear in this situation. I want to excel.”

3

Expose yourself to the situation (or something similar)

Next, go to a place where you can do your challenge.

Example: The Classic Comfort Zone Crusher Challenge by Till

We’ll take the example of lying down for thirty seconds in public. Go to a public place, find a busy spot where you aren’t in harm’s way, and lie down for thirty seconds.

The first time you do it you’ll be feeling anxious. Your mind will be filled with excuses, and your body will be filled with nervous energy.

Push past that, make it to thirty seconds, then get up and walk on. Then, do it again, and then again, until lying down in public gives you little to no anxiety.

Other Examples: Related to Parkour and Martial Arts

Afraid of looking stupid when doing Parkour or street callisthenics as a beginner?

Start by doing 5 minutes of simple mobility drills (e.g. quadrupedal motion, crab walk, bear crawl) at a public place. Or, do a series of warm-up drills (jumping jacks and push-ups) at an outdoor fitness area.

Consider a less crowded spot for your first time. But, eventually, move on to spots with more people.

Anxious about starting a new martial art?

Sign up for a trial lesson at several dojos. Get a feel of training at different environments until you get comfortable with it.

Afraid to train at the gym for fear of being ridiculed?

Join a gym trial session with a personal trainer. Or, ask a friend to tag along.

By taking small steps to expose yourself to stressful situations, you become more confident in dealing with them.

The Comfort Zone Challenge Can Be Used in Any Area Of Your Life

Apply the comfort zone challenge to any area of your life where you find yourself feeling self-conscious or anxious about.

If you’re having troubles approaching ladies or gentlemen, or need a job but feel too afraid to ask, or want to feel more comfortable in your gym, then you can apply the comfort zone challenge.

Just take what is causing you anxiety, and begin to expose yourself to it in safe doses, and then you will begin to feel more comfortable.

Just like weight training or parkour, the more you do, the more capable you become. That’s how you gain confidence and get rid of anxiety by using the comfort zone challenges.

The post How to be a Confident Modern Ninja with Comfort Zone Challenges? appeared first on Way Of Ninja.

It is no secret that combat sports are incredibly dangerous, and present a serious risk to the health of the participants. Why do you think those at the very top have such lucrative careers with million-dollar paydays!

But, there is a common argument on which combat sport presents the biggest dangers. Is it boxing or is it MMA? Well, you can form your own opinion after you’ve read the science.

Quick Introduction to Boxing and MMA

Boxing

Boxing is a sport that goes back centuries and has since evolved tremendously. Gone are the days when men would step in the four-sided ring without an official licence.

In addition, gone are the days when men would brawl for fifteen hard rounds.

Now, boxing is refined. Championship fights consist of twelve 3-minute rounds and so much more training is performed in the build-up.

Ultimately, boxing is summed up by the old adage that goes, “hit but don’t get hit”.

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)

On the other hand, MMA is the art of intertwining several different fighting forms to create one style. It is a mixture of striking and grappling.

To be competent at MMA, a fighter has to master arts such as boxing, Muay Thai, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, judo and wrestling.

Also, as the bouts take place in a larger ring, known as an octagon (due to its eight sides), the number of rounds tend to be between 3 and 5. That said, round times tend to be more than the three-minutes you’d see in boxing.

Now, let’s get to the exciting part, and that’s determining which one is more dangerous…

Is MMA safer than boxing? What a 2015 study reveals…

From the outside, you’d straight away judge MMA as being by far the more brutal. After all, you can kick, knee and punch to the head, ground and pound, and perform lethal submission locks.

However, boxing is comprised of constant powerful punches to the head over a potential 36-minute period. Although you may witness an awful amount of blood during MMA bouts, the more severe and long-term injuries are more likely in boxing.

Here’s what research conducted by the University of Alberta reveals (based on a 10-year study of 1,181 MMA fighters and 550 boxers who had fought)…

Slightly More Injuries in MMA than Boxing

Research has revealed that 59.4% of MMA fighters have experienced some kind of injury during a bout. This is higher than boxing (49.8%).

But… Boxing Injuries are Far More Severe

Further  in the study, a large portion of MMA injuries were bruises, cuts and muscular issues. Yet, injuries in boxing included loss of consciousness, severe eye injuries, broken bones or head trauma.

Boxers were also much more likely to experience a loss of consciousness (7.1% compared to MMA’s 4.2%). Also, the statistics for serious eye injuries also pointed towards boxing being more dangerous; the chances were 1.1% in comparison to 0.3%.

Sports medicine physician at the Glen Sather clinic, Shelby Karpman, who was part of the research, stated…

“Yes, you’re more likely to get injured if you’re participating in mixed martial arts, but the injury severity is less overall than boxing. Most of the blood you see in mixed martial arts is from bloody noses or facial cuts; it doesn’t tend to be as severe but looks a lot worse than it actually is.”

On closer inspection, many boxers have died as a result of the constant blows to the head. Many more have retired with impaired cognitive functions and brain damage.

Conclusion

All in all, you are likely to get injured in both MMA and boxing matches. These risks are due to the nature of competitive combat sports. But, the majority of injuries in MMA are cuts, whereas those in boxing are trauma to the head.

Therefore, boxing injuries are far more severe and can have lasting damage on the eyes and brain.

What are your thoughts?

The post Boxing vs MMA – How Often & Badly Will You Get Injured? appeared first on Way Of Ninja.

After the usher walked me to the premium seats, I realized how close to the action I was going to be. There I was at Asiatique Riverfront for the award-winning stage production – Muay Thai Live: The Legend Lives.

After training at Boxing King earlier that day, I wanted a crash course on Muay Thai’s past. What better way than to let the Thai paint a picture of the martial sport’s history?

Muay Thai Live: The Legend Lives

Muay Thai Live: The Legend Lives is a show, directed by Ekachai Uekrongtham, that features Muay Thai’s evolution from the past to the present. Through five acts, it retells three ancient legends and then takes the audience back into present-day Bangkok.

While the stories were narrated in Thai, subtitles in three languages appeared on the backdrop – English, Chinese and Japanese. No one was allowed to take photos and videos when the show started.

Act 1: The Tiger King

The first act retold the legend of the Tiger King (Phra Chao Seu), who reigned during the Ayutthaya era. He was said to love Muay Thai so much that he disguised himself as a commoner to compete in boxing matches.

What caught me off-guard…

The act began with “hecklers” in the audience yelling and laughing. Before I got annoyed, Ayutthayan men in loincloths ran on stage. The actors had hidden among the audience and were portraying rowdy warrior lads jesting around.

At this point, I appreciated being seated in the second-row (premium tickets via Klook). Due to the proximity to the stage, and the actors occasionally moving into the audience, it felt as though I was in the middle of the action.

You’ll have to watch the show for yourself to experience the show’s version of this legend.

Act 2: The Prisoner with Eight Limbs

The next act was the legend of Nai Khanom Tom, a warrior captured by the Burmese forces after Ayutthaya fell.

One day, the Burmese king decided to hold a boxing contest, in which Nai Khanom Tom fought as a prisoner. He defeated ten elite Burmese boxers with ease in back-to-back matches and received praised from the king.

The fight scenes and realistic stunts…

The fight scenes and stunts were especially spectacular at my distance. Even though I knew it was choreographed, the stunts and dramatic flips got my heart pumping.

I can still remember when Nai Khanom Tom leapt off the ground and landed on an opponent’s thigh. Almost immediately, his elbow came crashing down on the Burmese boxer’s head, collapsing the man to the ground. The speed of the choreographed fight was amazing.

Yet, I thought I heard the sound of whiplash when Nai Khanom Tom punched and kicked his opponents. I hadn’t imagined it. I clearly heard it over the dramatic music and sound effects. With the staged fight at that speed, there was bound to be actual strikes that connected.

Act 3: The Warrior with Broken Swords

The third act follows the story of Phraya Pichai Dap Hak (Phraya Pichai of the shattered sword), a lesser-known legend than the earlier two. The tale features a warrior who fought in battle with two swords. This is supposedly a form of weaponized Thai boxing.

In a battle against the Burmese, this swordsman fought until his swords shattered. He then had no choice but to fight unarmed against the enemy.

If I recall correctly, the stage production took artistic license with this tale and embedded a heart-wrenching love story within. There was a star-crossed lovers twist involving a female warrior counterpart. I’m not going to give away the ending.

Beautiful weapon choreography…

The weapon fight sequences were extremely well-choreographed. The number of hours that went into training must have been immense for everything to look so fluid.

With the end of this legend, the show moved towards present-day Muay Thai.

Act 4: The Lethal Art of Muay Thai

The fourth act took the audience to the present day. It showcased the culture, tradition, and values of Muay Thai that was passed on for generations. The fact that it lives on till today, combined with dramatic music, gave me goosebumps. Muay Thai was clearly more than a martial sport, adopted by MMA, that seemed devoid of tradition.

What moved me was when the Muay Thai men demonstrated each form in unison when the name of each technique flashed on the screen. Concurrently, two people fought each other to show how that specific technique worked in real time.

The naming convention of martial techniques was uniquely Asian

It was then that I realized that the Thai were like other cultures when it came to naming their forms and techniques. Consider the following names (translated into English):

• Mountain overturns earth
• Elephant thrusting its tusks
• Hanuman the Monkey King presents the ring

All of these names have cultural significance to Thai culture, geography, religion, and history. The same can be said about how the Chinese and Japanese name their forms and techniques.

Act 5: The Passionate Fighter

Not only were there fight scenes, this act included Parkour and tricking stunts.

Set in present-day Bangkok, the son of the police chief witness the abduction of his fiancee. Having no choice, he summons his training in Muay Thai to rescue the love of his life.

From thugs rappelling down from the ceiling to fights in mid-air, the action sequences were spectacular. This modern tale cleanly ties Muay Thai’s past and present together.

Great storytelling, traumatic scene…

When one of the thugs got thrown and flipped, I couldn’t help but cringe and retract my shoulder. It reminded me too much of how I injured my right shoulder.

Muay Thai Live Boxing: Warriors Rising (actual match)

After the show ended, the stage was set up with a makeshift ring for two boxing matches. Nonetheless, the Chinese couple seated next to me left. I don’t think they understood the announcement made in English.

During the interim, most of the audience headed for the restroom before returning to our seats. Because the actors’ movements were unpredictable during the show, no one in my section got up to use the restroom earlier.

As you can see, the nak muay (fighters) are rather young at 17-years-old. There are, of course, younger fighters at rural fairs.

Anyway, I’ve cut the interim breaks between the boxing bouts from the video.

Also, there was a small group of Thai spectators cheering on the fighters insanely. They were either related to the fighters or had a gambling stake in the outcome of the fight. When I left the theatre after the fight, the poor kid who lost was being yelled at by his manager.

Thoughts about the Show & Whether it’s Worth Watching

I loved experiencing Muay Thai Live: The Legend Lives. It was an eye-opening experience for me to watch live-action fights and stunts, amidst awesome storytelling.

But, having read the original accounts of the legends, I don’t think the show’s renditions are completely accurate. An example of it was the love story.

This isn’t an issue though. It is understandable for theatre and films to embellish and exaggerate old stories. How else will you get to see a fight scene when the original version doesn’t give a blow-by-blow account of what happened? The core legend is still there.

Again, the action-packed storytelling was superb. It made me oddly happy.

What’s more, the Thai boxing matches after the show hits the point home on competitive Muay Thai today.

For all that, I was happy to spend the money.

Was it worth it to pay more for the premium seat?

Yes! By being in the front, I felt as though I was part of the action. I could see and hear everything up close.

Unfortunately, that included the sickening thuds on the actors’ bodies whenever they got kicked, punched, or thrown against the stage floor.

Also, I got the ticket at a discount via Klook. So, that may be why I’m not complaining about the price. I’ve listed a few online agents below and compared their prices.

How to Get to Muay Thai Live at Asiatique Riverfront?

1. To get to Asiatique Riverfront, take the BTS Skytrain to Saphan Taksin station, which is on the Silom line (only a few stations from Siam interchange).

2. Get out of the station from exit 2. Follow the sheltered walkway to Sathorn Pier, which is less than 150m away. Turn left at the huge column with the blue signboard. Refer to my photo below.

3. Once you reach the pier, ignore the touts and keep walking to the end. Look out for one of these signs below. That’s the queue for the free shuttle ferry to Asiatique.

4. To get to the Muay Thai Live theatre from Asiatique’s pier, walk to the STAGE Theatre located at Chareonkrung Soi 74-76 within Asiatique.

Take the same shuttle ferry back to Saphan Taksin for free. The ferry operates from 4 to 11.30pm.

Comparing Ticket Prices & Reliability from Various Agents

Prices may fluctuate based on the season. For accurate prices, click on the respective buttons to check them.

*Prices with the asterisk were calculated with the original price quoted (in non-asterisk), using the exchange rate on 21 Sept 2017.

Should you get tickets that include transportation?

No. Don’t waste your money unless you’re too far from the nearest BTS Skytrain or MRT Metro station. Even then, taking a metered taxi (or Grab car) would be much cheaper.

In most cases, getting there via BTS Skytrain and the free shuttle ferry will cost you less than 50baht (US$1.50). If you are switching from the MRT metro to BTS Skytrain, it may cost you an additional 30baht at most. Go to this section for instructions on how to get there.

There is little reason for you to get a ticket that includes car transfer, especially when central Bangkok is notorious for its traffic.

So, if you decide to watch Muay Thai Live, I recommend getting the premium ticket via Klook. They’ve saved me money on a few experiences during my trip in May/June and been a service I could count on.

The post Muay Thai Live in Bangkok – Live-action Show with Fights & Stunts appeared first on Way Of Ninja.

Boxing King is a Muay Thai gym that caters to recreational practitioners – people who train to keep fit. They are not a fighters gym. In fact, they have Crossfit as well.

What’s great about them is their commitment to making the place friendly to women, as well as beginners. Moreover, their convenient location draws in professionals, uni students, and local celebs.

Here’s a summarized scorecard of Boxing King at Siam. The detailed review can be found after that and is divided into sections.

Continue on for the full review… or book a class at Boxing King.

Brief History of Boxing King

Boxing King Muay Thai was established in 2014 by Chutima Pruangmethangkul.

The founder, a famous female entrepreneur, wanted to create a gym where women felt comfortable learning Muay Thai. After all, many women felt intimidated by the traditional male-dominated Thai boxing gyms.

Hence, to make Boxing King feel welcoming, she insisted that the trainers wear pink Muay Thai gear. They reluctantly complied.

They later warmed up to the idea when they saw how well it worked. The colour had a psychological effect on its patrons.

How to Get There?

When you leave the station, pick the exit that leads you to Siam Square One shopping mall. Do not enter the mall. Instead, take the escalator to the ground level.

Once you reach ground level, face the mall, and turn to your right.

Walk straight down for roughly 150 metres toward Siam Square soi 1 (i.e. Siam Square lane 1). At the opening of Siam Square soi 1, you’ll see Siam Discovery shopping mall across the road on your right.

Turn left into the lane and continue straight down for 50 metres.

If you see Scala Theatre on your right, you are going the correct way. You will see a few signs that indicate the way to Boxing King.

Take the stairs up to reach there.

Use Google maps with GPS for better direction. Here’s Boxing King’s Facebook page; their website isn’t working. For class bookings, I recommend doing it via Klook (just like I did). Here’s Boxing King’s listing on Klook.

Training Experience at Boxing King at Siam

After informing the counter of my booking (via Klook), I plopped down the bench and tried to ease my anxiety.

This was my first attempt at Muay Thai, and I was about to train in an unfamiliar environment abroad. Moreover, it was the first time since my injury that I’d be doing martial arts.

That said, I didn’t have to do much about the anxiety due to what happened in the restroom…

Someone fell bare-ass onto me when pulling up his shorts. It was awkward enough that it got rid of my anxious state of mind. And, that guy looked suspiciously familiar – like I’ve seen him in some magazine or poster in Thailand.

When it was 10 am, I made my way up to the fourth floor. Since I was the only person there, the trainer began what was supposed to be a group class.

Warm-Up & Hand Wrap

“Okay. Run.”

My trainer in hot pink pointed at a small area of space. I stared at it dumbfounded.

He wanted me to run in circles in an area that couldn’t be more than 10 by 20 metres (11 by 21 yards). And, I did.

I would come to realize that this was the norm at other gyms. It didn’t matter that the space was tiny. The running was just to raise your heart rate.

After that, the trainer helped me with my hand wraps. That was when three girls joined the class. Together, we continued the rest of the warm-up.

Technique Demonstration & Padwork Combos

Standing in front of the mirrors, the trainer demonstrated various strikes and kicks. With barely any English, he gestured for us to mirror him.

Communicating with him was no problem though. After all, we were training in Muay Thai; not trying to learn Calculus in Thai.

Shortly after drilling us on basics (and shadow boxing), we did a few rounds of pad work. It was during this time that things got a little strange.

Where the girls had to do 20 sit-ups before striking the pads, I was told to do fifty. And, instead of taking a break between combos, I was the only one that had to do more sit-ups.

Why?

It soon hit me that the trainer was varying the intensity for each of us. Since the girls had lower stamina, they didn’t have to do sit-ups during their breaks.

Ending with Conditioning, Stretching and Cool Down

The 1.5-hour session ended after some conditioning drills, a cooldown, and stretches. While the session wasn’t as intense as my other experiences, the girls were exhausted.

That’s why the intensity may be just right for complete beginners who aren’t as active in their daily life.

Vibe, Facilities & Trainers – Summary of Assessment

Vibe:

• Welcoming and friendly to people of all levels
• Child-friendly
• Less intimidating for beginners

Facilities:

• Fully air-conditioned
• Three storeys (two floors of training area)
• Clean gym mats, sandbags, and pads
• Clean toilets with showers
• Brightly-lit locker area within the restroom

Trainer:

• Able to speak a little English
• No problems with communication and teaching
• Adjusts intensity to cater to each student
• Corrects stance, coordination and technique issues

Opening Hours & Class Timings

• Opening hours: 10:00 to 22:00
• Class timings: 9:00am, 10:30am, 12:00pm, 1:30pm, 3:00pm, 4:30pm, 6:00pm, 7:30pm

Cost:

• Group class (up to 6 people) for beginners: 575THB (via Klook)
• Group class (up to 3 people) for beginners: 875THB (via Klook)
• Private one-on-one for beginners: 1375THB (via Klook)

Note: It is slightly cheaper to book a class via Klook. You are allowed to cancel your booking without penalty if you give at least 24 hours notice. Also, pick the 6-person class option.

Pros & Cons – What I Liked

Pros of Training at Boxing King

So, here are some things I liked about the trainer. class, and facilities.

Attention to Each Individual’s Stamina and physique

Among the three sixteen-year-old girls, one had great technique and coordination. The trainer intensified her pad work sessions. And, he made her combos slightly complex.

Furthermore, the trainer was attentive to each person’s stamina. He stopped my sit-ups in one of the breaks when I was visibly exhausted.

Correcting Errors in Strikes and Kicks

During my pad work session, I was terribly uncoordinated. Perhaps… this was due to my inexperience in striking (save for my poor experience with Taekwondo when I was seven).

Yet, the trainer corrected my jabs, hooks and side kicks. He made sure that I created more torsion with my hips when performing a side kick.

This is unlike many fitness-focused gyms outside of Thailand. The trainer corrected us whenever we performed the strikes, kicks, and blocks incorrectly.

Class Limit on Number of Students

Unlike many gyms, Boxing King restricts the number of people per group class to a maximum of six. This allows the trainer to give you more attention. This is definitely a plus for beginners.

Clean & Hygienic

The training area, restroom, and lockers are kept clean and brightly lit. This is a contrast from many rural fighters gyms.

Welcoming vibe

The place is especially welcoming to beginners and anyone intimidated by a traditional Muay Thai gym. The founder has made it especially women-friendly as well.

One reason I chose this as my first Muay Thai gym was its friendliness to anxious beginners.

Cons of Training at Boxing King

Not a Fighters Gym

Why this obsession with fighters gyms?

Muay Thai is a contact sport that is widely watched throughout the kingdom. To experience how actual fighters train (or at least witness it), you have to go to a fighters gym. Recreational gyms that have a great fighter’s program would also be good for independent fighters.

However, Boxing King’s key focus is on people who do Muay Thai for fitness and recreation.

Marketed for fitness rather than skill

As mentioned, Boxing King markets itself to people who are into fitness. So, I’m unsure if they train intermediate students in sparring. Sparring develops distance, rhythm, and clinch application. Without it, you won’t properly know how to fight or defend effectively.

This, of course, is not an issue for recreational fitness practitioners. Even beginners can get away with just pad work and shadow boxing. But, at a later stage, you will have to spar and practice clinching.

Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Train at Boxing King?

There are two compelling reasons to train at Boxing King (Siam Square soi 1):

• Location: It’s near Siam BTS Skytrain station, within Bangkok’s city centre. You can avoid peak hour traffic by taking the train.
• Training environment: The environment is a plus for people who get anxious when trying a new sport.

So, if you’re on a tight schedule or on a short trip to Bangkok, consider training at Boxing King. The commuting time is negligible.

Nevertheless, Boxing King caters to recreational practitioners of Muay Thai. Fighters should look elsewhere to train.

Location aside, these are some specific groups of people who would find this gym suitable:

Complete Beginners

If you’re a complete beginner in Muay Thai (and want a taste of how it’s like) Boxing King is perfect for you. Likewise, if you’re working in Bangkok’s city centre and want to do Muay Thai for recreation.

However, if you’re looking for long-term serious training, you should train elsewhere.

People with Training Anxiety

Do you easily get anxious (or intimidated) in a new training environment?

Boxing King and its trainers are very approachable. The training environment makes your learning a lot more conducive.

One of the reasons I chose this as my first gym to visit was training anxiety. I needed to know what to expect from a typical class in Thailand.

Leisure Travellers

Boxing King is suitable for travellers who want a side activity in their itinerary. It’s certainly not a gym I’d fly all the way to Bangkok for as a martial artist.

But, for leisure travellers, this is a great option.

People travelling with Family and Friends

Having travelled with family and friends, I know how hard it is to convince them to do physical activity. It’s especially tough if they’re all sedentary in their daily lives.

That’s why you’d have a much greater chance of getting them to do Muay Thai if you pick Boxing King.

Location-wise, it is convenient to get to. This eliminates complaints about the time needed to get there. Program-wise, Boxing King’s beginner class is good enough to keep everyone engaged.

And, if you have kids in your group, this gym is awesome for them.

Now, what about you (if you’re a serious practitioner)?

Talk to the trainer and give him/her some information about your training background. These trainers are/were fighters. They can definitely up the intensity and technicality for you.

Who should train elsewhere?

If you’re visiting Bangkok primarily for Muay Thai, give Boxing King a miss.

Assuming you’re experienced, go to a fighters gym instead. Or, pick a recreational gym that’s known for its fighters program.

Serious beginners who can devote at least a week to training should also train elsewhere. This includes martial artists who don’t practice Muay Thai and want to train for the skill (not fitness).

Nonetheless, independent fighters can drop in if they need training facilities in Bangkok’s city centre.

Bottomline

Boxing King Muay Thai is a great place to train due to its location and welcoming environment. The gym is clean, and the trainer adjusts training to your capabilities.

Because it’s in the shopping district (and near a university), you’ll encounter Thai celebs and uni students there. Not to forget… working professionals as well.

Again, I recommend this gym for recreational beginners and people who can’t travel far out of the city.

Visit Muay Thai Gyms & Fights in Thailand

Experience Muay Thai in Thailand. Check out budget listings via Klook, a reputable regional booking engine.

Pick a Muay Thai gym & Book now

The post Boxing King Muay Thai Gym in Bangkok – Experience & Review appeared first on Way Of Ninja.

While I was in Bangkok trying out Muay Thai, I assumed that all gyms were similar. Maybe there’d be obvious differences between rural and city gyms, but everything else would be the same… yes?

This simplistic view couldn’t be further from the truth.

As the Thais would say, “Same-same, but different.”. And, damn different they were. I had realized this after training at various places.

But, what was different?

For one, there were noticeable contrasts in target market and vibe. Likewise, the modus operandi of each Muay Thai gym varied.

Where the gym at home targets recreational practitioners (and the occasional fighter), Thailand has a huge training scene for fighters. Not to mention, it being the birthplace of Muay Thai, has opened up tourism for the combat sport.

Clearly, these give you a lot more training options in Thailand. Your only problem is to pick the right type of gym for you. Here’s a guide that breaks it down.

Why Muay Thai Gyms Differ in Operations & Clientele? (in Thailand)

How a gym/school gets its revenue determines how it operates, and the kind of people it attracts. So, income model is a major factor that influences the differences in each gym/school.

Here’s what I mean…

Traditional fighter gyms get a cut of their fighters’ winnings, and ring-appearance fees. This is only fair because they’ve sponsored the fighter’s training. So, the traditional nak muay gym regards a sponsored fighter as an investment.

Conversely, Muay Thai schools gets its revenue from teaching the art. They also get their income from offering trainer certifications.

Hence, when you look beneath the surface, it becomes clear why many gyms open up to tourists and wealthy locals. They need to survive and profit.

Differing Attributes of Muay Thai Schools/Gyms/Camps

With income underpinning the differences, here are some attributes that gyms differ in.

1. [Purpose] – Recreational practice (with a focus on fitness) vs Professional fights
2. [Level in Skill] – Beginner vs Intermediate/Advanced
3. [Tourism] – Locals vs Foreigners
4. [Class & Income] – Poor, Middle-class or Upper-class
5. [Cultural] – Preserving the old art vs advancing the sport internationally

As you can see, these attributes are not exclusive. They often overlap. That’s why it took weeks to categorize the types of gyms/schools into neatly-defined boxes (unsuccessfully).

I realized that the best way to group them, is to examine their focus, and acknowledge their overlap.

And so, here are the six types of gyms/schools in Thailand. Pick the right one for yourself.

Recreational Practice – Muay Thai Training Options

#1 – Muay Thai School

Muay Thai schools focus on teaching Muay Thai, rather than training fighters. Their syllabus caters to students of all levels. And, they offer certificates for different grades.

This makes Muay Thai schools better suited for beginners, and anyone who wants to be graded.

Muay Thai schools also certify trainers, instructors and referees. Some certificates are more reputable than others – the government-backed MTI (Muay Thai Institute). As such, any fighter that seeks instructor certification should do it there.

This serves to promote Muay Thai as a sport globally.

Despite being a place that teaches Muay Thai, most schools do train fighters.

Don’t forget that Muay Thai – in its long history – has always been a pugilistic sport. Hence, it’d be uncharacteristic for any place that claims to teach Muay Thai not to train fighters.

Moreover, in the MTI, you need to fight professionally in 3 to 5 fights once you reach level 4 certification.

TL/DR: Great for beginners, and people looking for trainer/instructor certification.

#2 – Recreational Muay Thai Gyms

Recreational Muay Thai gyms are similar to gyms you can find at home. They cater to recreational practitioners, and a small number of pro fighters.

Their target clientele are middle/upper class locals and foreigners, who do Muay Thai to keep fit. That’s why it’s not uncommon to see these gyms offer other training programs like CrossFit or BJJ.

Does this mean you should avoid training in recreational Muay Thai gyms?

No. These gyms often offer specialized programs for fighters. Their trainers tend to also be top notch. Of course, this varies among recreational gym.

In fact, there are some gyms (in this category) that have superb programs for fighters. And, they also have the connections to fight promoters and organizers.

One such example is Khongsittha Muay Thai – reviewed positively by fighters despite not being a fighters gym. As a beginner, I liked how they focused on technique (and not assume I’m yet another person who does it to lose calories).

TL/DR: Great for beginners and recreational practitioners. Depending on the gym (and its trainers), independent professional fighters can consider training here.

Note: What’s the difference between a sponsored and independent fighter? Read this account of a foreign sponsored fighter (who then switched to being an independent fighter).

#3 – Muay Boran Preservation School

Muay Boran is the ancient form of Muay Thai. It’s stances are lower, and syllabus contains many forbidden techniques in ring fights.

Many schools that offer Muay Boran do it to preserve the art (and provide a primer to curious tourists). Often, Muay Boran is taught alongside Muay Thai.

Most schools welcome both locals and foreigners. And, they’ll teach you a lot about Thai culture and history.

One great place to learn Muay Boran at is Be Muay (located conveniently in Bangkok’s city centre). Kru Suphan is an amazing master.

TL/DR: Suitable for anyone seeking instruction in Muay Boran, and an understanding of Muay Thai’s historical underpinnings.

Professional Fights – Muay Thai Training Options

#4 – Traditional Nak Muay Gyms/Camps

Traditional Nak muay (or Fighters) gyms focus on preparing professional fighters for fights. They do not teach recreational beginners.

Trainers there would assess a fighter’s opponent in an upcoming fight. Then, they’d train their fighter to counter his opponent’s strengths and weaknesses.

Most traditional fighters gyms have a higher proportion of sponsored fighters. After all, these gyms make money from the winnings and resulting bets on their fighter’s fight.

Rural Thai families send their sons to these gyms to become fighters (often due to poverty). At times, it could also be because the child has an interest in the sport.

Depending on the child’s potential (and passion), the gym may arrange to sponsor him. They then teach Muay Thai to the nak muay (professional fighter), who can be as young as ten years old.

TL/DR: These camps are not suitable for recreational practitioners. Likewise, complete beginners should look elsewhere for training. However, amateur and professional fighters can benefit from training with the local fighters there.

Note: It’s hard to find nak muay gyms that solely train sponsored fighters nowadays. Most traditional gyms welcome foreigners and independent fighters to help defer their expenses.

#5 – Foreigner-focused Muay Thai Camps

Foreigner-focused Muay Thai camps operate primarily for tourists. You’d be hard pushed to see another Thai fighter there.

Due to the size of the camp, and quick tourist turnover, you’ll likely get less attention from trainers. This generally means your training won’t be adapted towards your strengths and weaknesses.

TL/DR: I’d avoid purely tourist camps. For recreational beginners it may be okay though.

#6 – Hybrid/Modern Fighters Gyms/Camps

Modern/Hybrid fighters gyms prepare fighters for fights, like traditional ones. They sometimes overlap in categorization. As I’ve mentioned, many traditional gyms open up to foreigners for survival.

So, how do you make a distinction?

Look at how they primarily fund the camp.

Modern/Hybrid fighters gyms rely on independent fighters for income and profit. These fighters, be it local or foreign, pay training fees.

Traditional nak muay gyms rely on sponsored fighters. They pay for the fighters expenses, and pocket a cut of the fighter’s winnings. That’s how they make money. While many welcome foreigners and independent fighters, the training fee is used to defer expenses (not profit).

For Fighters

That said, there is little difference in the quality of training between the two. Both have produced top fighters.

However, you may want to train at a modern fighter gym because of the local-foreigner ratio.

According to Aaron Jahn’s standards, a good mix of foreign and local fighters in a gym is desirable. Training with Thai fighters help you progress in your clinching technique.

Yet, without foreign fighters, you may find that you outweigh all local fighters.

For Beginners

What about complete beginners to Muay Thai?

Unlike traditional nak muay gyms, most hybrid gyms run a beginner’s program. If they do, go ahead and train there. And, try to train for at least a week if you do. It increases your chances of jostling with fighters there.

TL/DR: Great for fighters due to the Thai-foreign fighter ratio. You get the best of clinching progress and sparring style. Also good for beginners who can commit at least a week there.

#7 – Muay Thai Retreats/Seminars

Muay Thai retreats are events where fighters and enthusiasts gather to train together. You get to learn from each other. Seminars, on the other hand, are events where one or more kru instructs.

While most of these events welcome people of all levels, I don’t think beginners will be able to get much out of it. After all, most seminars do not cover the basics, and jump right into technical explanations.

Nonetheless, you can keep an eye out for beginner retreats and seminars.

TL/DR: Mostly for experienced fighters and practitioners, unless the event specifies otherwise.

Final Thoughts & Conclusion

Unfortunately, when you get to train in Thailand, you’ll find that the different gyms cannot fit into perfect categories. There are definite overlaps in many. Just be aware of these factors, and pick out a training facility that matches.

Having defined the types of gyms in this article, I’ll post the reviews for the gyms I’ve visited back in June.

P.S. I’ll be updating this page with a list of Muay Thai places to try out. In the mean time, check out these listing for martial arts packages that include both training and accommodations.

Train in Thailand From Just $80!

Experience Muay Thai in Thailand, Tai Chi in China, and more. Choose the duration of your training to get started.

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The post The 6 Types of Muay Thai Gyms in Thailand – what’s best for you? appeared first on Way Of Ninja.