Muay Thai, also known as the "Art of Eight Limbs," has a rich history deeply rooted in Thai culture. With its origins dating back centuries, Muay Thai has evolved into a global phenomenon. Today, Muay Thai enthusiasts from around the world flock to Thailand to experience authentic training in the country where it all began.
In 2022 I headed to Thailand to train at some of the world's most famous Muay Thai gyms. The holy grail of any Muay Thai fan, I travelled alone for the first time, training with the likes of Samart Payakaroon and some of the most active gyms in Thailand with fighters actively competing on Rajadamnern World Series, Petchyindee and even ONE Championship.
When training Muay Thai in Thailand, everyone has their different style of learning. Some like to be upfront and centre in the middle of all the chaos such as Bangkok, others, prefer to be off the beaten track in somewhere like Sai Mai and some, by the beach in the beautiful Phuket.
Whatever your style is, we've got you covered with The Ultimate Muay Thai Gym map of Thailand:
The History of Muay Thai:
Originating in ancient Thailand, Muay Thai was initially developed for self-defense for the military. Over time, it transformed into the sport we know today, deeply ingrained in Thai traditions. With its emphasis on striking using fists, elbows, knees, and shins, Muay Thai earned the nickname "Art of Eight Limbs."
Muay Thai's roots can be traced to the 16th century during the Ayutthaya Kingdom, where conflicts were frequent, and warriors needed an effective form of close-quarters combat. Initially referred to as "Muay Boran," this precursor to Muay Thai involved a combination of strikes, grappling, and weaponry techniques.
With the establishment of the Rattanakosin Kingdom in 1782, Muay Boran underwent a transformation into what is now recognized as Muay Thai. King Rama I, a martial arts enthusiast, supported the development of Muay Thai, making it a key element of military training and a sport for entertainment.
Muay Thai has seen many forms over the years but for the most-part has stayed true to its roots, with some slight alterations making it more sport friendly. Luckily, Muay Thai is still very deeply rooted within Thai culture and with that, we can now see the beautiful traditions and learn more about the history of Thailand through martial arts.
The Golden Age of Muay Thai (1930s–1960s):
Muay Thai gained immense popularity during the Golden Age, primarily through the efforts of Nai Khanomtom, a legendary fighter. In 1774, he defeated ten Burmese warriors consecutively, showcasing the prowess of Muay Thai and earning the respect of the Burmese king. This event is celebrated annually on March 17th as "Muay Thai Day."
During the Golden Age, Muay Thai matches became huge events, often accompanied by ceremonial rituals and traditional music. The sport's popularity continued to rise, with fighters achieving celebrity status, and training camps began to emerge across the country.
Some of the greatest Muay Thai fights to this day took place in the golden era and are still referenced now. Luckily, legendary golden age Thai fighters are still actively training students at their camps in Thailand, such as Samart Payakaroon, Kongthoranee, Karuhat Sor Supawan and many more.
Muay Thai Camps in Bangkok:
Exploring the Heart of Muay Thai
Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, is a hub for Muay Thai training. Renowned gyms such as Fairtex Training Center and Sitmonchai Gym attract both local and international fighters seeking world-class training in the heart of Thailand.
Some foreign fighters have gone on to win prestigious stadium belts, such as Joe Ryan, the first Rajadamnern stadium champion from the UK.
The great thing about training Muay Thai in Bangkok is that you can easily find a mix of being in the centre of chaos or off the beaten track. When I was training in Thailand for the first time, I had a mix of both. I started off my trip embracing the more rural Thai culture about 40 minutes outside of Bangkok at Samart Payakaroon's and then made my journey to the centre of Bangkok for a few days.
Here is the list of active Muay Thai gyms in Bangkok for 2024:
- Chacrit Muay Thai Camp
- Muay Thai Institute Rangsit
- Fighting Spirit Gym
- Virapol Muay Thai Gym
- Samart Payakaroon Gym ค่ายมวยสามารถพยัคฆ์อรุณยิม
- Sangmorakot Muay Thai Academy
- Jitti Gym Academy
- ค่ายมวยแก้วสัมฤทธิ์ Kaewsamrit Gym
- ค่ายมวย ส.วรพิน Sor. Vorapin Muay Thai Training Gym 2
- Sitsongpeenong Muaythai
- EminentAir Thai Boxing Gym
- INGRAM MUAYTHAI GYM
- Elite Fight Club
- Chuwattana Gym
- RSM Rajadamnern Singha Muay Thai Academy
- Sitmonchai Gym
- Petchyindee Kingdom
- Nikhom Muay Thai
- Watchara MuayThai Gym
- Muay Thai Academy M.T.A
- Bangkok Fight Lab - Jiu-Jitsu MMA & Muay Thai
- F.A.GROUP MUAYTHAI
- WUT มวยไทยยิม
- Meenayothin Gym
- Master Toddy's Muay Thai Academy
Muay Thai Camps in Phuket:
Training in Paradise
Phuket, with its picturesque beaches, is a popular destination for Muay Thai enthusiasts. Gyms like Bangtao and Sinbi offer a blend of high-quality training and a tropical paradise experience.
During my trip to Thailand I trained out in Rawai, Phuket for a couple of weeks. Again, like Bangkok you have a mix of being in the more lively areas such as Patong or just a quick drive away you can be in more of a relaxed environment like Rawai.
Due to Phuket having some of the most popular gyms, it's not uncommon to bump into active Muay Thai fighters competing at stadiums and even UFC fighters.
Here is the list of active Muay Thai gyms in Phuket for 2024:
- Rawai Muay Thai
- Powerhouse Phuket
- Kru Oh Muay Thai
- Dragon Muay Thai
- Sinbi Muay Thai
- KYN Phoenix Muay Thai Gym
- Phuket Top Team
- AKA Thailand
- Muay Thai Gym Phuket School
- Sumalee Boxing Gym
- Tiger Muay Thai
- Keh Muay Thai Gym
- Suwit Muay Thai
- KAMALA MUAY THAI
- Singpatong Sitnumnoi
- Tiger Muay Thai
- Bangtao Muay Thai & MMA
Muay Thai Camps in Pattaya:
Coastal Warriors
Pattaya, a coastal city, has emerged as a prime location for Muay Thai training. Gyms like Fairtex and Sityodtong provide top-notch facilities with a serene coastal backdrop.
Whilst I haven't visited Pattaya myself, I know a lot of people that train here, offering a more relaxed training style and mix of partying.
Here is the list of active Muay Thai gyms in Pattaya for 2024:
- Fairtex
- Petchrungruang Gym
- Muay Thai Gym
- B-Fitness & Muaythai Gym
- EVO360 Muay Thai
- O. Sansuk Muay Thai Gym
- Muay Thai - Thai Boxing Gym
- Winner Muay Thai Gym
- Kombat Group
- Sitpholek Institute of Muaythai
- Silk Muay Thai
- Rambaa Somdet M16
- Fairtex Hotel
- Venum Training Camp
- Sityodtong Muay Thai Camp
- Sudsakorn Muay Thai Gym
- Rage Fight Academy
- Fairtex Muay Thai Fitness
- Sor Klinmee Gym
Muay Thai Camps in Koh Samui:
Island Intensity
Koh Samui, an island known for its natural beauty, hosts gyms like Lamai Muay Thai and Superpro Samui, offering an idyllic setting for intense training sessions.
Again, sadly I haven't had the chance to train in Koh Samui yet, but it's definitely high up on the list for when I return.
Here is the list of active Muay Thai gyms in Koh Samui for 2024:
- SuperproSamui
- BenThong Muay Thai
- Jun Muay Thai
- Lamai Muaythai
- Yodyut Muaythai
- Ratchawat Muay Thai Boxing Gym
- Thai Boxing - Koh Samui
- Jackie Muay Thai
- Super 8 Muay Thai Gym
- Punch it Gym
- Dowden Muay Thai Gym
- LionHeart
- Sing Samui Muay Thai
- Saman Muay Thai
- Koh Fight
- Dock & Kitti Muay Thai Gym
- Wech Pinyo Muay Thai
- Tom Muay Thai
- Deeday Muay Thai
- Sit Tawanlek Gym
- Maenam Muaythai Kohsamui
- Samui-Fightclub
- VWin Gym
- Sor Jitphakdee
- Evolution Muay Thai gym
- Srisawat Muay Thai Samui
- K Plus MuayThai Chaiya Gym
- Sand Muay Thaï Gym
- Star Gym
- Weerachai muay thai
- TalingNgam Muay thai Gym
- Koh Fit Thailand
- Dock MuayThai Gym
Heading to Thailand soon? Why not grab some of our premium Muay Thai training gear to see you through your trip and then some!
Muay Thai Camps in Krabi:
Cliffs and Clinches
Krabi, with its stunning limestone cliffs, provides a unique backdrop for Muay Thai training. Gyms such as Ao Nang Krabi Muay Thai offer a blend of nature and rigorous training.
- KMAX MUAYTHAI GYM
- Honour Muay Thai-Ao Nang Krabi
- Peteak Muay Muay Thai Boxing Gym
- Bull Muay Thai
- Emerald Muay Thai Gym
- Over the top muay thai and fitness
- Khun Suek Muay Thai
- Grit Muay Thai Gym Ao nang
- Rock Muaythai Gym
- Krulek Muaythai
- Grit Muay Thai Gym
- p.j. muaythai
- White Shark Chalamkhow Muay Thai
- Krabi Lion Muaythai
- Yaya Muay Thai Boxing
- Krabi Fitness Ao Nang Landmark
- Railay Training Muay Thai (Coach James Training)
Foreigners Conquering the Muay Thai Scene:
Over the years, many foreign fighters have ventured to Thailand to train in Muay Thai camps. Some have even gone on to achieve great success, beating some of the greatest Muay Thai fighters on their home turf. This international exchange of skills and knowledge has elevated the sport and spread the thirst for muay thai around the world.
One of, if not THE most notable and a personal favourite of mine is Liam Harrison. A nak muay fighting out of Leeds, United Kingdom, with over 115 Muay Thai fights and eight world championship titles. Known for his pressure and power, Liam has been a fan favourite whose name is etched into the UK Muay Thai scene.
Liam has shared the ring with some of the greatest Muay Thai fighters on the current Muay Thai scene in Thailand, most notable, one of the GOATs of all time, Saenchai.
More recently, the not so new kid on the block defeating some of the greatest Thai fighters of this era is Jonathan Haggerty, recently defeating Nong-O Gaiyanghadao on ONE Championship.
Further back in the Muay Thai archives an international rivalry brewed as Dutch kick-boxer and eight-time Muay Thai world champion shook the Muay Thai scene on their home turf. He quickly became a fan favourite due to his aggressive forward pressure and powerful style.
The Ultimate Thailand Muay Thai Camp Map:
To help you on your Muay Thai journey, we've compiled a comprehensive map featuring all the prominent gyms in Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, Koh Samui, Isaan, and Krabi. Whether you're a seasoned fighter or a novice looking to hone your skills, this map is your guide to the ultimate Muay Thai experience in Thailand.
Travelling to Thailand on a Muay Thai training adventure is not just about learning a martial art; it's an immersion into the history, culture, and spirit of a nation. This Thailand Muay Thai Camp Map is your key to unlocking the full potential of the Art of Eight Limbs in the land where it was born. Train hard, embrace the culture, and experience the transformative power of Muay Thai.