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Muay Thai is both a sport and a martial art that's been woven into Thai society for centuries, from the Sukhothai, Ayutthaya and Thonburi periods right through to Rattanakosin. Even though the world spins faster every day and plenty of things have changed, Muay Thai still stands as an important national identity.
At the same time, it's never stood still but has adapted and evolved with the times. Culture from outside has gradually blended naturally with Thai roots. The result is Muay Thai that's gone beyond being a fighting art in the ring, expanding into dimensions of branding, lifestyle and contemporary creativity, reflecting how the sport has evolved in the big city context and its role on the world stage today.
Before Muay Thai went global, it began with bare hands, kad chueak wrapped with raw thread. Fighters wore prajieds on their left and right arms, mongkol on the head, short pants, no shirt and bare feet. Meanwhile, the referee in purple cloth and royal sash stood supervising the game. The atmosphere was thus not unlike a ritual awakening the fighter's spirit before the bell rang.
Photograph: Muay Siam Magazine
Today, Muay Thai might live in a gym next to the BTS, with classes after work and gloves instead of kad chueak. But its true essence hasn't disappeared. Anyone who's truly trained knows that every punch, every elbow, still connects to the original roots of this fighting art.
Muay Thai from each region has a different signature. The North emphasises footwork, Isan has heavy punches and wide kicks, the Central region is fast and precise, while the South specialises in defence and quick counterattacks. These differences flow together in Bangkok, the city where legendary fighters from across the country have settled, established gyms and passed on their knowledge. The result is urban Muay Thai with diverse fighting styles, depending on which teacher's lineage you study with. That's the charm of the wealth of options in Bangkok – by looking at the rhythm of attacks, you can immediately guess which school this fighter comes from.
For true Muay Thai fans, we want to invite you to try them all. We guarantee every gym has something new to take away, whether it's punch rhythm, defensive game or little tricks gained from the direct experience of the legendary teachers.
Selecting Muay Thai gyms in the capital is a very difficult process. However, we can guarantee the credentials of the teachers on this list, who have kicked their way through both national and international level arenas. These are 10 Muay Thai gyms from 10 Bangkok districts that city people should know try for themselves at least once.
What is it? Located in Nuanchan, Bueng Kum, and founded and managed by Tatchanon Kotchasuwan, a famous promoter with a vision for Muay Thai to be a sustainable, global profession. This gym is for developing skills with professional fighters who've taken athletes to success in the ring for the last 10 years, with complete equipment and facilities where you can come and train comfortably, bringing only yourself.
Why go? This gym uses sports science to systematically help fighters improve their techniques and enhance their physical condition. Merging the gym's modernity with care from veteran teachers makes training accessible but gaining more than exercise – skills, discipline and deeper understanding of Muay Thai.
Time Out tip: This gym is about to have a project to create a clothing brand and equipment to present the Mavinn brand, ready to seriously open a production factory. Anyone who wants to see Muay Thai in the dimension of lifestyle and branding, we recommend keeping an eye on this movement.
Mavinn Muay Thai, Nuanchan, Bueng Kum. Open Monday to Saturday, 6am to 7pm. 065-985-7919.
For more information Facebook: Mavinn Muaythai Gym IG: mavinn.muaythai.gym
What is it? Run by Jaroenthong Kiatbanchong, a star fighter from the 90s who grabbed the Lumpinee championship three times across two divisions. After hanging up the gloves, he transformed Muay Thai into exercise, creating something of an industry masterpiece. Although it initially operated sending new generation fighters into the ring, it later adjusted to open opportunities for those interested in learning for fitness. Now it has branches everywhere and has even expanded into the equipment business. From a Southern fighter to a successful entrepreneur in the Muay Thai world.
Why go? As it opened as a school for fighters first, the learning blends both old and new curricula, from instructors with a professional B-Licence from the Boxing Commission Office of the Sports Authority of Thailand. The teaching is serious, and suitable for determined people who want to go pro. We reckon it's worth it.
Time Out tip: There are three branches in Bangkok at Ratchada, Khao San and Meng Jai. Pop into whichever is closest.
Jaroenthong MuayThai, Ratchada branch. Open every day, 24 hours. 02-276-5016. Facebook: Jaroenthong MuayThai / IG: jaroenthong_muaythai_official
What is it? Tucked away in Prawet, this long-established venue focuses on ancient boxing passed down through generations. The movements feel distinct from modern Muay Thai, marked by older forms and precise detail. Classes welcome beginners through to professional fighters, alongside instructor courses certified by the Kru Muaythai Association. Competition takes a back seat here. The priority is teaching teachers, allowing knowledge to travel further through those who pass it on. Thai and international students train side by side, drawn by the chance to learn techniques rarely seen elsewhere and a philosophy that values preservation as much as progress.
Why go? What sets this place apart is its focus on ancient Muay Thai, the original Thai fighting art once used in warfare and self-defence. These techniques are increasingly rare, passed down quietly rather than showcased. Anyone who feels they have reached a certain level elsewhere can come here to go further, learning older forms that demand patience, precision and respect for the roots of the art.
Time Out tip: The ancient boxing taught is Chao Suea formula boxing, which comes from Prince Chao Suea, who disguised himself as a commoner to fight and defeat three famous fighters while inventing his own signature moves. Guaranteed classiness.
Luktupfah Muay Thai, Prawet. Open Monday to Saturday, 7.30am to 6.30pm. 081-302-4622. Facebook: Luktupfah Muay Thai / IG: luktupfahmuaythai
What is it? Open since 1990, outstanding in punch technique. A favourite among foreigners because it provides accommodation and food, including free fitness training.
Why go? Teachers are highly experienced former boxing champions from many famous arenas. If you're interested in competing, they can arrange events and find competition opportunities.
Time Out tip: Fancy trying to fight for experience? They can arrange events and take you up to the ring. Requires diligence and training effort to show you're ready, though.
Kaewsamrit Gym, Taling Chan. Open Monday to Sunday, 7.30am to 8.30pm. 087-821-6866. Facebook: Kaewsamrit Gym / IG: kaewsamritgym
What is it? Managed by Matthew Paul Deane, actor and host of a famous channel's Muay Thai programme. He opened it from a place of passion after struggling to find the right gym without driving to Pattaya or Phuket. In Lat Phrao, it highlights cleanliness, good service and friendly trainers, removing the harsh gym image. A space for the new generation to exercise and exchange ideas.
Why go? Suitable for anyone wanting to exercise regularly, not aggressively, and easy to access. Lat Phrao residents take note.
Time Out tip: There's a Train & Stay package arranging training and accommodation, ideal for tourists or those coming specifically to train here.
Khongsittha Muay Thai, Lat Phrao. Open Tuesday to Friday, 8am to 11am and 3pm to 8pm, and Saturday to Sunday, 8am to 11.30am and 3pm to 6pm. 02-932-9911. Facebook: Khongsittha Muay Thai / IG: khongsittha
What is it? In Bangkok Noi, Petchyindee has produced a steady stream of superstar-level fighters who have gone on to compete on the world stage, including ONE Championship. The gym is known for sharp skills, an assertive fighting style and fighters with real presence, qualities that have earned it international recognition far beyond the neighbourhood.
Why go? Emphasises strength, building discipline for those who want to be serious. Answers that determination.
Time Out tip: Training places strong emphasis on shadowboxing, where fighters throw punches and move through the air against an imagined opponent. The practice sharpens balance, builds control and helps release tension, turning movement into a focused conversation between body and mind.
Petchyindee MuayThai, Bangkok Noi. Open Monday to Saturday, 9am to 8.30pm. 096-786-6642. Facebook: Petchyindee Academy / IG: petchyindee.academy
What is it? Kaewsamrit Gym has been shaping fighters since 1990, known especially for sharp, punch-heavy technique. It remains a favourite with international visitors thanks to its easy, all-in setup. On-site accommodation and meals take care of the basics, while free access to fitness facilities offers a softer option on rest days. It’s a place where serious training meets everyday comfort, balancing discipline with a welcome sense of ease.
Why go? A calm, unpressured atmosphere helps students settle quickly, creating space to learn without intimidation. Training focuses on technique rather than brute force, making it accessible for all genders and ages. As one of the area’s earliest gyms, it holds a familiar place within the local community, known and trusted by generations who have passed through its doors.
Time Out tip: More women train here than at many other venues, drawn by an approach that feels supportive. The tone is less aggressive than it once was, creating space for learning, confidence and curiosity
Keatkhamtorn Gym, Ram Intra. Open Monday to Saturday, 8am to 8pm. 083-223-9635. Facebook: Keatkhamtorn Gym / IG: keatkhamtorngym
What is it? Named after its manager and guided by Saensatharn P.K. Saenchai Muaythaigym, a former 13 Coins fighter, the gym has gained attention through ONE Championship champion Tawanchai P.K. Training welcomes all ages and levels, with a reputation for tall Muay Thai, sharp wit and crowd-pleasing flair.
Why go? At certain times, students train alongside professional fighters, sharing the same space and routines. Warm-ups, hand wrapping and the weight of pads under a kick offer an unfiltered view of daily work. It quickly shows how much effort sits behind real skill, making the gym feel like a testing ground rather than a simulation.
Time Out tip: Managed by Sia Kak, who bought famous rising star fighters so students can absorb experience. Train well here and you'll definitely work with skilled fighters.
P.K. Saenchai Muay Thai Gym, Rama 3. Open Monday to Saturday, 7am to 9am and 2pm to 6pm. 062-525-6591. Facebook: P.K. Saenchai Muay Thai Gym / IG: p.k.saenchaimuaythaigym
What is it? In Bang Kapi, established for over 60 years since 1965 from Ratchadamnoen, passing down knowledge for three generations. Guaranteed with a history of skilled fighters like Torsak Pongsupa, former WBF world champion, or Nakrob Fairtex who made a name in ONE Lumpinee. Also one of the first to accept foreigners.. Professional fighters reach 80% of their power here.
Why go? A legend that refuses to slow down, the gym stays lively while continuing to evolve. Its strength lies in passing down traditional Muay Thai with care, while giving space for new generations to shape what comes next.
Time Out tip: The owner also works as a promoter, taking a long-term view of every student’s journey. Support starts from day one and extends beyond the final session, with genuine attention paid to development, wellbeing and even the journey home.
Sasiprapa Muaythai Gym, Bang Kapi. Open Monday to Saturday, 8am to 6pm. 081-856-6684. Facebook: Sasiprapa Muaythai Gym / IG: sasiprapa_gym
What is it? Set by Khlong Saen Saep, the gym is set in a garden home. Founded by the Yuhannge family, who raised 16 children here, Muay Thai became a way to steer them from a troubled neighbourhood. Every child turned professional. Even as lives move on, the place still holds them together.
Why go? Set beside Khlong Saen Saep, the gym benefits from open air and steady breezes that soften the heat, offering a calmer experience than most central Bangkok venues. Comfort doesn’t dilute standards. Training is led by champion-level teachers holding WPMF and WMO belts, alongside coaches from the Looksaikongdin lineage. Every session delivers full focus and intensity, balancing a relaxed setting with serious instruction.
Time Out tip: The team has led seminars across multiple countries, earning a larger following abroad than at home. International students arrive knowing the name, while many locals are still catching on. For now, that imbalance works in your favour, as quieter sessions reward those who choose their timing well.
Looksaikongdin Gym, Khlong Sam Wa. Open Monday to Saturday, 4pm to 6pm. 061-650-7017. Facebook: Looksaikongdin Gym / IG: looksaikongdingym
These 10 Muay Thai gyms across 10 districts each offer a distinct experience. Choose for proximity, teaching approach or the chance to train with a respected name. Beyond physical strength, Muay Thai builds discipline and resolve, offering release after heavy days and sending you home lighter, clearer and sometimes with less back pain too.
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