Do You NEED to be in Shape to do Muay Thai?

Fіtnеѕѕ Tірѕ Fоr Starting Muау Thаі

In оrdеr fоr уоu tо рrасtісе Muау Thаі do уоu nееd tо bе fіt аnd hеаlthу? While it helps and will make you first several classes more enjoyable, it is not a priority. If you’ve been using the excuse of “I want to make sure I am in good shape before I join” then you are really missing out.

Practicing Muay Thai is not something you can do in the Gym. Lifting weights and running on the treadmill will not make you any better at Muay Thai and does not replicate a typical Muay Thai class. You will be very disappointed if you think the Gym will get you ready for class.

What can you Expect your First Couple Classes?

Each dojo (Martial Arts Gym) is going to be a little different so it’s important that you find a dojo that fits your personality. Are you looking for Self Defense, Sport or Fitness? I can’t speak for other dojos but I can run you through a typical class at Arashi Do.

Warm up – I like to mix things up a bit, but we typically start with skipping. Not the long rounds that is common in other schools, just a few minutes. This give me time to change from my last class (BJJ) and throw on my Muay Thai Armour… my shorts (they’re pretty awesome). Once I jump on the mats we will do a variety of calisthenics but I really try to mix it up. I have done and run over 10,000 warm ups since I started so I get bored easily. The goal is to get you warmed up but have you smiling and thinking “I gotta try that move, it looks neat and different”. I always reach my goal.

Are you ready to start?

The Main Lesson – Every month I have a different theme. Last month was Clinch and Dirty Boxing for Muay Thai, this month is using Head Movement for Self Defense and applying it to Muay Thai. This is the part where we build and develop the skill set for the month. As the month progresses we make sure to review everything we’ve done the last few class so we don’t forget (Side Note: you forget 75% of what you learn within 24 hours if you don’t review it. That number drops down to less than 20% if reviewed within 24 hours). Then the newer skill is added on.

Application – Depending on your skill level you will either spar using the moves we are developing while working them into your regular game or if you don’t have the tools to spar yet you work on sparring drills that develop great habits. We spend a fair amount of time here. This is the most valuable part of class, being able to apply what you’ve learned and see what works right away and what needs attention.

Extras – Sometimes class will incorporate Heavy Bag work or Pad work to get an extra workout. I will usually throw in some extra crazy push ups or ab work to really make you sweat.

Cool Down – Typically class runs about an hour and a bit so we don’t have formal streching time in class, but the group is getting much better about sticking around and stretching, foam rolling, work the heavy bags or pads a bit or just hanging out and socializing. This is the best time to ask for personal help on moves that challenge you or share ideas.

Click Here for your FREE 5 Lesson Mini Course

What can YOU do to get Ready? Some exercises are pretty widely accepted for improving your conditioning. Push Ups, Crunches, Skipping, Squats… and lots of stretching. Click here for a quick 5 lesson video! This will be much more beneficial than spending time in the gym. Knowledge is power. Learn these basic moves and the first class will be a breeze.

If you are reading this far you can see nothing was mentioned about needing to be in great shape when you start… man, you don’t even need to be in good shape. You just need to start. Losing weight and improved Fitness is a byproduct of training in Muay Thai. On top of that you will find a HUGE increase to your confidence and mental well being. Don’t put it off any longer.

Come down to Arashi Do Edmonton and try out one of our great programs like Muay Thai, Fundamental BJJ, Women’s Only BJJ or Children’s Muay Thai for ages 4-7 and 8-14.