A Trainer’s Guide to Bangkok’s Best Muay Thai Gyms

Petchyindee Kingdom has a 40-year history in Thailand. Its impressive roster boasts superstar fighters like Sam-A Gaiyanghadao, winner of multiple Thai titles, and Sagat Petchyindee, whose signature fighting style was developed into a character in the video game Street Fighter. Today, the gym’s passionate siblings, Bet and Boat Yindee, have developed their family’s legacy into a fully immersive training experience suitable for all levels. Located in Bangkoknoi, Petchyindee Kingdom boasts modern facilities, including accommodation, a sauna and a weight room, along with on-site nutritionists and masseurs. Many aspiring amateurs come here to prepare for local competitions. However, with the rising interest of Muay Thai for fitness in Bangkok, especially among women, the gym also offers daily rates and monthly memberships for their recreational classes. Prices start at 500 Thai bahts (£12.60) per class.

With its homestay-like setting in Ket Prawet, Luktupfah feels worlds away from the busyness of Bangkok. The gym is run by GM Woody, a former professional boxer who now trains some of the top Muay Thai boxers in Thailand but warmly invites newcomers to learn the mind-body connection behind this powerful cultural tradition. Along with twice-daily modern Muay Thai classes, the gym also offers technical-focussed Muay Boran classes. Unique to Luktupfah, these classes dig deeper into the ancient styles of Thai boxing from which today’s Muay Thai originated, focussing on special techniques no longer practised in the ring. For those looking to advance even further in the sport, the gym also offers coaching and refereeing certifications. Prices start at 400 bahts (£10) for a drop-in class.

This ultra-modern and stylish gym lies right in Silom, making it extremely popular among busy Bangkokonians looking for a fun way to stay fit. Legend Thai Boxing focusses largely on beginner-level training – but that doesn’t mean its trainers aren’t at the top of their game, each boasting at least 75 fights under their belt. The studio offers 10 classes a day using the skills, techniques and mentality of Thai boxing to craft dynamic sessions fit for both the burgeoning fighter and the fitness enthusiast. Its MO is to keep classes fun, no matter the level. There’s also an attached massage facility to indulge your sore muscles after a sweaty session. Prices start at 500 bahts (£12.60) for a drop-in class.

Established to promote the sport to a larger audience across Bangkok, Sor Vorapin is a family-run Muay Thai school known for producing top world boxing champions. It is also nationally recognised for its expert trainers – each with more than 15 years of teaching experience in addition to their individual championship accolades. Located in the Taling Chan neighbourhood, Sor Vorapin offers newcomers an immersive experience of the training regime of professional Thai boxers. The trainers adjust each class based on student levels and make sure everyone gets one-on-one time to perfect techniques, ensuring safety and limiting the risk of injury. Prices start at 500 bahts (£12.60) for a drop-in class.

Sor Tawanrung Muay Thai Gym developed as a passion project between two brothers, each with formidable junior careers as fighters in Thailand. Ajarn Dang emerged as a young superstar from a small fishing village in Southern Thailand when he turned his attention to helping his younger brother break into the sport. Dang eventually earned the title of “Best Trainer of the Year” in 2012 by the Sports Authority of Thailand. Today, the siblings run their gym together in a new and revamped location near Phothalai Leisure Park in Lat Phrao. While the duo still trains top champions, the gym’s expanded facilities now also cater to enthusiasts of all levels in both extended camps and single-day sessions. The brothers believe that the qualities learned in Muay Thai can be transferred to enhance everyday life, and they aim to share these lessons with anyone who wants to learn. Prices start at 500 bahts (£12.60) for a drop-in class.

Samart Payakaroon is widely regarded as one of the most talented and accomplished Thai boxers of all time. The champion fighter tallied a remarkable record throughout his Muay Thai career – and even transformed his fighting style to compete as a formidable force in Western-style boxing as well. In his gym in Sai Mai, Samart Payakaroon now trains students of all levels from across the globe. His approach is puritan. The Thai-style camp prides itself on emphasising the culture and language of Muay Thai, along with physical and mental training, making for an immersive experience whether you’re dropping in the ring for a day or staying for a while in the on-site accommodation. Prices start at 600 bahts (£15.10).