Should You Train Muay Thai at an MMA Gym?

When people think about training Muay Thai in Thailand, they often picture traditional gyms. But here’s the twist: some of the most famous gyms in Thailand are now MMA gyms. Places that either started as Muay Thai gyms and evolved or were founded by MMA coaches and have always had a strong focus on wrestling and grappling.

Take Phuket, for example. It's home to some of the world’s best grappling coaches, some of whom are pioneers in MMA.

The Appeal of MMA Gyms for Muay Thai Training

World-Class Facilities and Coaches

MMA gyms have invested heavily in their facilities and coaching staff. Phuket, for example, is home to some of the world’s best grappling and MMA coaches, pioneers in their sport.

For fighters with an interest in diversifying their skill sets, this combination is incredibly appealing. You might start your day striking and clinching in a Muay Thai class, move into a BJJ (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu) session, and finish with MMA sparring. For MMA fighters focusing on striking, this mixed training ground seems ideal in theory.

Convenience

MMA-focused gyms often create structured schedules that mix Muay Thai, MMA, and grappling seamlessly. This means if you’re planning a three-week camp, you can easily rotate between Muay Thai classes, MMA striking sessions, and grappling for a well-rounded training experience that is perfect for an MMA fight camp.

But how do their Muay Thai classes stack up?

Honestly, some of the worst Muay Thai classes I’ve been to in Thailand were at two of the most well-known MMA gyms. To be fair, these gyms are also two of the most popular tourist gyms, and their MMA, wrestling, and BJJ classes are top-tier. But when it comes to Muay Thai? They sometimes fall short.

The Dilution Effect

You could argue these gyms lean heavily into MMA, and their Muay Thai programs might have regressed over time. But here’s the thing: MMA is still a niche sport. These gyms rely on their Muay Thai clientele to stay profitable. And don’t get me wrong—I’m a huge MMA fan. But you should have a clear picture of what you’re getting into.

Gyms Change, and So Should Your Opinion

Gyms in Thailand are constantly evolving. A Muay Thai gym that was once considered the best in Thailand may decline over time, while a lesser-known and new gym could improve dramatically in just a few short years. That’s why it’s important not to base your decision solely on outdated opinions.

Whenever possible:

• Seek multiple perspectives and read recent reviews.
• Join online forums or communities to ask about other fighters' experiences.
• Visit potential gyms in person to assess their current quality before signing upto a long-term program

Advice for MMA Fighters Seeking Striking Training

If you’re specifically training for MMA and want to train striking skills that transition well into MMA, an MMA gym may provide what you need. However, don’t assume that an MMA gym will automatically offer superior striking resources.

Here are some tips to help you find the right coaching:

• Check for Dedicated MMA Striking Coaches: Some MMA gyms rely just hiring Muay Thai trainers who lack experience in MMA. Always verify the coach’s credentials and track record in teaching MMA fighters.
• Research High-Level Coaches: Ideally, you’ll want a coach who has trained athletes competing at the highest level. Look for gyms with proven success stories in both MMA and Muay Thai. Striking in MMA and Muay Thai is vastly different. There are a few standout coaches who have experience at the highest levels of both sports. If your goal is to reach the top of the MMA world, you need to find coaches who specialize in that, but it’s not always easy, don't just assume you'll get that turning upto an MMA gym in Thailand.

Advice for Muay Thai Fighters Seeking Muay Thai Training

If you're looking for the best Muay Thai training, you'll probably find this in specific Muay Thai only gyms. Not all MMA gyms will have sub-par Muay Thai classes but if you read through all of their reviews online and separate out reviews for their MMA and Muay Thai classes you might find they are vastly different.

Here are some tips to help you find the right Muay Thai Gyms

• Check the reviews for MMA Gyms: Some MMA gyms really excel at teaching MMA they'll have great overall ratings but if you read through their Google reviews their Muay Thai classes might fall short
• Research High-Level Coaches: Ideally, you’ll want to spend some time finding out where the high-level Muay Thai coaches are teaching.
• If you are a Competitive Fighter: You will probably not be training with beginners. Ask other professional fighters what their experience of training at certain gyms was.

Final Thoughts

Most gyms in Thailand are solid. If you’re an average fighter or just looking to improve, you’ll likely get great training anywhere. But if you’re serious about finding the best, this advice will help guide you. Keep an open mind, do your homework, and enjoy your training!