Why learn Muay Thai? There are a lot of benefits! People who train Muay Thai often experience health benefits due to regular exercise, it can help you lose weight, it’s a great opportunity to challenge yourself, you will probably meet some really cool people along the way, and lastly it’s a LOT of fun!
If you’re considering starting, here are a few more reasons you should go for it!
1. You can learn Muay Thai no matter your age or fitness level!
Though Muay Thai originated in Thailand as a way for men to defend their land and families, people of all ages and backgrounds now enjoy training Muay Thai around the world! Everyone, from children to grandparents, can experience a fun and challenging workout! A good gym will have knowledgable coaches that can teach to your level. You can go as hard or easy as you need, and as your fitness increases, so will the intensity of your workouts!
2. Exercise your BODY and MIND at the same time!
Because Muay Thai is a martial art, it involves both a physical and a mental element. You learn the moves, but as you progress you learn when to use which technique and why. It’s almost like a fast moving game of chess. You may find the mental challenges and growth positively effect other parts of your life as well. As you train with other men and women, you will likely learn more about your own capabilities, strengths, and weaknesses. Once you become familiar with your perceived limitations, you may just find yourself growing and accomplishing things you never before thought possible!
3. Learn Discipline and Gain Confidence
Training Muay Thai does take discipline. Though anyone can do it, it’s not an easy sport by any means. You will find yourself being challenged in many ways, but an encouraging coach and the supportive community environment that muay thai gyms tend to will help keep you coming back again and again. You choose your goals and decide where you want to go with it: from professional fighter in the ring, to someone who who just enjoys the workouts, to everything in between.
There’s no confidence boost like setting a goal, trying and failing until you get it right. And the only way to push past failure is to stay disciplined!
4. You may meet some cool people and have some neat opportunities!
Muay Thai attracts all kinds of people from all walks of life. If your experience is anything like mine, you’ll brush shoulders with many interesting people, and maybe even develop some lasting friendships. As an amateur fighter I was able to travel to a few different countries, meet some great people, and have unforgettable experiences I never would have dreamed of. I even met my husband (indirectly) through Muay Thai and it’s something we love sharing together!
5. Have fun trying something new!
Whether you’re feeling in a rut, need a new exercise routine, or are just curious, I encourage you to give Muay Thai a try. Trying something new often helps us look outside ourselves and our own experiences, and grow as an individual! Starting a hobby that’s both enjoyable AND challenging is worth the investment.
“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”
-Mark Twain
If you’re not sure where to begin, ask someone who already trains Muay Thai for help! They will most likely be happy to answer your questions and recommend a gym in your area. Another option is a google maps search of “Muay Thai” in your area. Read the reviews online and make sure they are a Muay Thai gym, and not just a gym with kickboxing or boxing workouts. A monthly Muay Thai gym membership will cost more but it’s the difference between a mere workout, and everything I just listed above. Be willing to make the investment in yourself.
New to Muay Thai? I’d love to hear your thoughts and questions in the comment section below!
