Average Joe and training in Thailand

[Patrick Prive]

Hi!

Sometimes I find myself dreaming about going to a camp in Thailand for a couple of weeks and I find it both intimidating and exciting. I think it could help me improve a lot in both technique and conditioning, on top of being immersed in Thai culture.

About the intimidating part:
Do you have to follow a regime like in the army? Do you have to run 2X10km a day and train twice a day? Do you get frowned upon if you take it easier? Is it even ok to ask? :mellow:

Can just anyone do it? Alright, maybe I exagerated in the topic title, but let's just say I'm no fighter. I train 1-2 a week, I run 15-20 km per week, I've taken a few privates and that's about it. Not that I don't like it, but I have a weird schedule at work, a house, a girlfriend...

Is a camp the only option? Could I just go to a MT school and train there like we do in the west?

Thanks!

[Kevin von Duuglas-Ittu]

From the sound of it you might really like training at a place like Lanna Muay Thai in Chiang Mai. What is nice about it is that it is very relaxed, but you get whatever investment you put into it.

[Micc]

I'm no expert, but I survived two weeks of training in Thailand :) At my gym (and most tourist-oriented gyms) the atmosphere is really easy-going, so don't sweat it if you don't run before every training. It's up to you if you do it, you might be taken more seriously because of that and if you want to fight for the gym it's a must, but if you're just looking for some training, you'll get it. 

[radarjam]

Not a pro either. I train 3-4 times a week (1.5 session each) I suck at running lol and I wished I was able to do it every other day when I trained in Thailand, but my knees/calfs always get shot from intense sessions, so I think you will definitely be in a better advantage. 

I trained for 2 weeks at Khongsittha (Nak Muay Nation Training Camp) to give you an example of our training regime, see this link: http://www.kstmuaythai.com/en/common-muay-thai-routines-training-thailand-part/ 

I managed to pull through, thank goodness! Best part is that everyone always helps each other -no teammate will be left behind! The atmosphere caters to beginners to pros. For the first few days it was tough because I was not used to the hot-humid weather.. my body was very strained as i was also not used to training twice a day, 6 times a week.. It does get better as the days go by. 

As long as you have a set goal in mind; always forward. You'll do fine :) It was such an unforgettable experience that I want to go back next year for 1-2 months this time. 

[Patrick Prive]

Thanks for the answer Kevin. I took a quick look at their website and it is indeed very interesting. I stayed in Chiang Mai for a few days this summer and it was by far my favorite spot in Thailand (for the little part I visited anyway...). I like how they just give you both general and specific information and basicaly inviting you in the family. I'll definitely give it a serious look.

I had a private with a guy in CM, his name was Kru Pong. Can't remember the gym name but it was sooo tiny. It was also a tae kwon do school I think. The most funny and interesting teacher I had, even though he was like...65 years old :P

So from what I understand from your answers, you just get results according to what you invest. Nobody will force you or intimidate you because you start slower. All you have to do is get to work, aim to get better and listen to your body.

Thanks everyone! :)