Training in Thailand is an experience like no other, especially here on the tropical island of Phuket. With its inclusive environment, tropical climate, affordable living, and ease of access to everything you need, it’s no wonder so many people come here to train. And if you come for Muay Thai, you can be sure to experience the sport at its very essence right here in its homeland. Things might seem sabai-sabai when you first arrive, but make no mistake – things move fast in Thailand. Staying relaxed is how the locals handle things; they go with the flow. You’ll notice there isn’t much resistance when things get chaotic here. The key to thriving here is simple: expect the unexpected.
When it comes to the Thai trainers, be prepared for a completely different blueprint on how to build a fighter. Expect playful jokes, lighthearted teasing, and being gently pushed beyond your comfort zone – all part of the experience and growth in training here. The trick is to think of it as a test – it will end if you can pass. The trainers are hazing you, and you’ve got to earn your keep. Smile through the pain and keep going. Once you overcome the initial discomfort, things will get fun. You’ll soon realize that your trainers mean well and that it’s an integral part of Muay Thai’s culture. Remember: your trainers went through the same thing back home when starting their fight careers.
On top of that, the Thai climate is more physically demanding than training back at home. Training in the tropics is no joke; it will take time and effort to acclimate. So get ready for extreme fatigue and sleepless nights. It’s a nasty combo, but with some determination, you’ll get through it. When training in a tropical climate, your body has to work harder to keep cool, making you feel drowsy. You’ll also be sweating tons, so the risk of dehydration is much higher. But staying hydrated here isn’t as simple as drinking enough water; you need to keep your electrolytes balanced. As for those sleepless nights, unfortunately, they’re normal after hard training. Intense exercise triggers the production of cortisol and adrenaline, which increase our alertness and heart rates, thus making it harder to fall asleep. The good news is that it’s easy to fix, but you have to stay on schedule and keep your diet on point. Make sure you are well nourished and finish training at least two to three hours before bed.
The best thing about training in Phuket, especially at a gym like Bangtao, is that you will meet so many amazing people. Everyone is training in the same discipline, but each person has their own unique style, experiences, and perspectives. While this is no doubt an incredible experience, it can also be quite overwhelming. Maybe you’ve had ten fights back home and won them all, but your trainer here may want to completely change your kicking technique and the structure of your fight camp. The best thing to do is embrace it. Be open to learning new things and intend to do just that. You will learn more this way, and eventually, you’ll be able to find your own style and figure out what works for you and what doesn’t. Don’t forget that the trainers at Bangtao have decades of experience in Thailand and abroad, so you can rely on their expertise. Change is hard but well worth it.
One thing you can always count on when training in Thailand is being asked to fight. It’s inevitable here, and while you might not seem ready, trust in your trainers. They wouldn’t be offering you a fight if you weren’t ready. There’s no better experience than getting to fight in Thailand. The fight culture here is like nowhere else in the world. The nonchalant atmosphere of fight night, paired with a crowd of hungry gamblers, creates an experience like no other. People love to support fighters here, whether it’s Muay Thai or MMA. The blend of tradition, passion, and community makes fighting in Thailand a unique experience – one you won’t find anywhere else.
At the end of the day, it’s up to you to make the most out of your time here. Embrace all the experiences that come your way and let the unexpected pleasantly surprise you. The best approach is to learn to roll with the punches and take a cue from the locals, adopting their sabai-sabai attitude.