EJJ

Hi all, I am fortunate enough to have the opportunity to be traveling to Thailand soon for just over a month of traveling and training. I am a complete beginner and do not own any training gear. One of the first stops on my trip will be to explore Bangkok and purchase equipment. What should be on my list? Clearly, gloves, wraps, shorts and mouthguard are required. I would be grateful for some more insight e.g. should I buy bag gloves and sparring gloves, whether shin pads are worthwhile for a beginner, etc. I'm partiularly conscious of the heat and humidity, it would make sense to pack two pairs of running shoes, two sets of gloves, several handwraps and lots of shorts. Any nuggets of wisdom are most welcome. Thanks in advance for your contributions!

Hi all, thank you for making this resource available there is so much useful information available here. In September I have the opportunity to visit Thailand for 6 weeks to train. I have no experience with MT although I am a generally active male in my mid 20s. Would very much appreciate advice on training before the trip and gyms to visit during the trip. Firstly, training and conditioning beforehand. Work and other commitments make attending MT classes frequently problematic day to day. However, I run 3x per week for 30-40mins (occasionally longer) and strength train 2-3x per week. I have a background in endurance running and cycling. The plan for the next few months is to carry on this routine, perhaps with the inclusion of 5-10 minutes skipping before runs. Is there anything else I should focus on in order to arrive in Thailand ready to train? Secondly, on trip logistics and gym selection. The plan is to fly into Bangkok and take a combination of classes and privates, probably training only once per day while acclimatising to the heat, humidity and training. Have read good things about Petchindee, Sangmorakot and Watchara gyms. After 4-5 days in Bangkok, the plan is to head north to Chiang Mai to try a few gyms and eventually settle down for 2-3 weeks of training 2x/day. The main appeal of Chiang Mai is the density of gyms and affordability. Gyms on my list include Dang, Bear Fight Club, Manasak, Manop, Sereephap, Sit Thailand and Lanna. The objective of the trip is to pick up a solid foundation in MT, with an emphasis on sound technique and fundamentals (including the clinch). Absorbing local culture is also important of course. I view fitness gains as a byproduct of training rather than an end in itself. My questions are: -Are there any obvious gym options I am missing? Particularly for a beginner seeking technical instruction in the basics. -Is it a waste of valuable time to gym hop too much? Would it be more beneficial for my development to settle down sooner or head straight to a well regarded camp like Kem or Sitjaopho for 6 weeks. Any advice and thoughts on the above would be much appreciated. It will certainly be a great and instructive experience either way.