Thailand Gym and Training Advice for Beginner

[EJJ]

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.

[Kevin von Duuglas-Ittu]

Sounds like you have a good approach, and a great trip.

I think gym hopping is okay, but if you find a place you like it doesn't mean you have to leave. Maybe move around with the idea that if you find something good you can just stay and enjoy it. Kem or Sitjaopho for 6 weeks is a very different experience. Maybe the thing to do is once you get up to Chiang Mai see how you feel about moving around, and if it doesn't vibe with you and you haven't found a place you love consider changing it up and going to Kem's or Sitjaopho. The key to Thailand is being very flexible, discovering things that connect with you. It won't be like how you expect.

[Imagineer]

I've been to Watchara gym a few times for PT but haven't tried their group classes. Its more of a "casual" gym (its air conditioned (which is not a bad thing!), clientele are (mainly) non-fighters) but the trainers are knowledgeable/experienced. Honestly i've hopped around in BKK for a bit and i haven't come across objectively bad trainers -  its more about finding one that has a personality/teaching style that fits you.  The gym is used to foreigners (you book classes through Klook). If you do go for PTs I would recommend Em - he does focus on technique and speaks very good English. 

You can do privates with them on Sundays (most gyms close on Sundays). If you go gym hopping in BKK and want more training on Sunday, you could try them out for a Sunday PT session.