Muay Thai

Q: What is Muay Thai?

Muay Thai is a striking martial art from Thailand, often called “the art of eight limbs” because it uses punches, kicks, elbows, and knees.  It’s one of the most effective striking systems in combat sports and self-defense, and a phenomenal full-body workout.

Q: Why is Muay Thai worth learning?

Whether your goal is fitness, self-defense, stress relief, or sport, Muay Thai delivers on all of it.  It’s one of the most complete and practical striking arts in the world, the techniques you learn are real, proven, and directly applicable to real-life situations.

As a workout, Muay Thai is exceptionally demanding in the best way.  It builds explosive power, cardiovascular endurance, agility, and coordination.  The combination of pad work, bag work (bags coming soon!), and drilling keeps every class fresh and challenging, regardless of your fitness level.  Most people are genuinely surprised by how quickly they improve and how much they enjoy it.

Beyond the physical, Muay Thai builds mental toughness, focus, and the kind of confidence that comes from knowing you can handle yourself.  It’s also a fantastic complement to BJJ, together they cover striking and grappling, the two pillars of practical self-defense.

Q: What can I expect during a training session?

Classes at GB Edmonds are structured, high-energy, and accessible for all levels.  Here’s what a typical session looks like:

We warm up as a group with dynamic movement drills to get your body and mind primed.  Coach Paul then walks through the technique or combination of the day, demonstrating each piece clearly before you work through it yourself.  You’ll practice with a partner on pads, drilling combinations with a focus on form, timing, and power.

As you progress, classes may include light technical sparring to apply your skills in a controlled, guided setting, but there’s no pressure to spar before you’re confident and ready.  Every class closes with a cool-down and stretch.  The atmosphere is disciplined but welcoming, Coach Paul sets a tone where everyone is learning and improving together.

Q: Do I need any martial arts experience?

No.  Muay Thai at GB Edmonds is open to complete beginners.  Coach Paul structures classes to teach proper technique from the ground up, so no prior striking experience is needed.

Q: What equipment do I need?

We have a limited number of adult gloves and shin guards. We do not loan out mouth guards, hand wraps, or cups.  When you’re ready to get your own gear, we recommend: gloves, hand wraps, shin guards, and a mouthguard.  For boys and men, a cup is also recommended for extra protection.  Having your own equipment is always better over time, but don’t let that stop you from coming to your first class.

Q: Is it only for people who want to compete or fight?

Not at all.  Most of our Muay Thai students train for fitness, self-defense, and enjoyment, not competition.  It’s an excellent workout and a practical skill set, no matter your goals.  If competition interests you down the road, we’ll support that too.

Q: How is Muay Thai different from regular kickboxing?

Muay Thai includes the clinch, close-range striking with knees and elbows, which most kickboxing styles don’t train.  It also has a deeper technical system with strong emphasis on footwork, timing, and defense.  It’s widely considered the most complete striking art in combat sports.

Q: Can I train Muay Thai alongside BJJ?

Yes, and it’s a great combination.  Many of our members cross-train in both. Together, they cover striking and grappling, the two pillars of self-defense and MMA.  Your schedule and goals will guide how you balance them.

Q: When are Muay Thai classes?

Classes run Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7:15–8:15 PM, led by Coach Paul. Check out our schedule for updates. 

Q: Do you offer a trial before I commit?

Yes!  We offer a free trial week so you can try the class before deciding on a membership. The membership includes both Muay Thai and Jiu-Jitsu!