Muay Thai is one of Thailand’s most popular combat sports, with local and national fights drawing large audiences either to the live venues themselves or to the weekly televised bouts.
Globally, the sport has grown immensely over the last decade, with people drawn both to the combat elements and just as importantly, the high fitness levels it brings once you practice regularly. MMA, in particular, use Muay Thai as an integral part of its training regimes.
How The Sport Works
Unlike kick boxing, which uses punches and kicks, Muay Thai also allows contact with fists, forearms, elbows, knees, shins and feet as well as grappling and clinching.
Contests are over 5 three minute rounds, with victory either by a knock-out or a technical knock-out when the referee deems one fighter unable to continue. Each round is also scored up to 10, so enabling a winner to be declared if both fighters remain standing at the end of the contest.
Traditions
- Similar to martial arts, Muay Thai’s rich tradition and philosophy dates back to the 16th century.
- Central to its ethos, mind, body and spirit must be harnessed as one if a fighter is to reach the top levels.
- Before all bouts, each fighter will don a Mongkol, a sort of sacred headband.
- During the contest itself, they will wear a charm or an inscribed cloth around the upper arm or waist.
Muay Thai Gyms on Koh Chang
Koh Chang now has just two gyms, Sakaran Smile and PP Wanrung.
Hourly or weekly classes range from around 500bt up to 3,500bt. Monthly courses are priced at 10,000bt, with food and board available as add-ons. Novices are especially welcome.
Koh Chang also hosts frequent tournaments during the year. Check here for details at Koh Chang Muay Thai Facebook Group Page. They are normally held in Sabay Bar in White Sand Beach.
Sakaran Smile Koh Chang
Klong Prao
At the start of the small road leading down to Santhiya Tree Resort, small club run by experienced Thai trainor. Open from 8.00 to 11.00 or 15.00 to 21.00.
- Per Person: 500bt/hour, 3,000bt/week.
PP Wanrung Muay Thai Gym
Kai Bae
- Per Person: 500bt/day, 3,000bt/week, 30,000bt/month (with food and board)
UPDATED December 23
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