Thai Boxing in Bangkok

If you're in or planning to be in Thailand, why not take lessons in Muay Thai's homeland? One of the best places to go is probably the Muay Thai Institute in Rangsit, located 17.5 km north of Don Mueang International Airport The institute preserves and promotes the art of Muay Thai by offering accredited training courses for boxers, instructors, and referees. You'll be learning from the best as the instructors are former champions who hold at least a bachelor's degree in physical education and speak good English. Graduates receive a certificate recognized by the Thai Ministry of Education and the World Muay Thai Council – a unique souvenir to take home.

Luktupfah Muay Thai Camp is quite far from Bangkok city center, so getting there can be a little inconvenient but this has the added benefit of keeping temptation at arm's length so you can focus on training. The trainers and staff are among the friendliest in Bangkok and, with many live-in students, the vibe is communal and fun.

In the past, Luktupfah Muay Thai has welcomed the Lebanese Special Forces, the Vietnamese National Boxing Team, and many other government-sponsored groups. Several of the trainers were national Muay Thai champions. They speak basic English as well.

Master Toddy’s Muay Thai Academy has earned many distinctions, which separates it from many fight camps in Bangkok. It's most famous thanks to the legendary status of Grand Master Toddy himself (Thohsaphon Sitiwatjana), who has been labeled ‘The Father of Muay Thai’ in England. He’s also renowned among the MMA community for training legends of the sport, including Randy Couture, Bob Sapp and Tito Ortiz.

Muay Thai Live: The Legend Lives at Asiatique Bangkok is an exciting theatrical show combining entertaining performances with the ancient martial art of Muay Thai boxing. Great for theatre enthusiasts, families or just anybody wanting to get an exhilarating insight into Thai culture, this 90-minute show left us impressed and eager to get into the ring ourselves. This Bangkok show runs from Tuesdays to Sundays at The Stage, a modern 600-seater theatre within the excellent Asiatique The Riverfront.

One of the best places to watch genuine Muay Thai in Bangkok is at New Lumpinee Boxing Stadium, located in the northern suburbs of the city. The power and grace of the fighters is impressive, and bouts come thick and fast with around 20 separate fights on each program. Bouts are fought over 5 rounds (2 minutes each), with the pace visibly picking up until the last round when the intensity of the fighters – and the crowd – becomes electric, all backed by the exotic, rhythmical music played by the oboes and drums of the Muay Thai band.