Frequently Asked Questions
“What is Muay Thai?”
Muay Thai, also known as the “art of eight limbs” (four points of contact through punch, kick, knee & elbow on both sides of the body), is an ancient martial art from Thailand, and it is the country’s national art form. Like any martial art, Muay Thai is taught for professional/amateur competition, recreational sport, and self-defense.
“I want to try a class but I have no experience and/or I’m out of shape.”
On experience: This is a Muay Thai school; experience is mandatory for the teacher, not the student :) Our beginner classes are specifically designed, from a structure and a safety perspective, with beginners in mind (and those with experience).
On physicality: What is true of the present, is not what is true or possible in the future. The state of our bodies and our minds are constantly shaped by the quantity and quality of what we put into it: food, rest and exercise. Moving is the simplest way to change our body positively and you can’t get to a desired result without starting. So let’s start.
“What do I need to bring for my trial?”
We have a whole page on what to bring and how to prepare! For full details, check the link FIRST CLASS TIPS
“It looks intense, will I get injured?”
Injuries only occur when mistakes are made. Mistakes are more likely to occur when there is a disregard for safety, or a lack of awareness of one’s movements and the surrounding environment. Student safety is the result of proper teaching, so you will learn how to move well without injuring yourself or others. And if there are any moves that you have a hard time with, no need to fear! Breaks from training and exercise modifications are always welcome if needed.
“Is Muay Thai good for self-defense?”
Martial arts is a means of forecasting violence and preparing for it. This principle is found in every style of martial art, whether it’s MMA, boxing, jiu-jitsu or Muay Thai. What’s important is first, that you learn the martial art that resonates with you the most, and second, learn it from a place that can teach fighting in the context of sport and life. Fighting in the ring is not the same as fighting in the streets; a good school will teach the difference.
“Do we spar?”
No need to fear, beginner classes have no sparring sessions. Sparring is reserved for intermediate level students who pass the beginner test (see question below) and most importantly, have a sound temperament while training.
“How long does it take to get to intermediate level?”/”How much do I have to train?”
It depends. Not every student begins with the same physicality and/or skill, nor have the same availability to invest in developing both aspects. Regardless of where students begin in their training (ie. with plenty of experience or none prior), below are the physical standards that students must meet in order to be nominated for their intermediate level test:
Skip 10-15 min. consistently
Complete with good form throughout, a 45-60 min. strength and conditioning workout that consists of basic exercises, combinations and ab finishers
Execute effective Muay Thai weapons & footwork with clean technique through padwork, bagwork and shadowbox
Improvements come from consistent and mindful effort, but don’t lose sight of enjoying the process. That’s always good place to start. However, if you would like to progress faster, join class at least 2-3 times a week.
I highly encourage everyone to make the most of learning Muay Thai. The intermediate level will simply open the doors to a higher level of training for students who are ready and passionate for more.