Beginners Muay Thai at Phuket King

No. Being fitter is an advantage, of course, but everyone starts at their own level and builds from there. Our coaches always adapt the class, and how they teach you, to where you are right now. Work at your own pace, take water breaks when you need them, and your fitness will come fast.

Not at all. Just turn up in basic sports gear: shorts and a t-shirt or vest are perfect. We have gloves and other bits and bobs you can borrow. Don't spend money on kit until you're sure you want to keep training long term. When you are, our shop has everything you need and the coaches are happy to help you choose.

• Comfortable sports clothes (shorts are best, you'll be kicking)
• A water bottle, and plenty of it. Phuket is hot and humid
• A small towel
• Hand wraps if you have them (you can buy them in our shop)

We train barefoot, so no special shoes needed.

Not at all. Sometimes experience helps, but other times it can actually get in the way, because every martial art is different. Boxers, for example, often have to adjust their stance and footwork. Come in with an open mind and our coaches will take care of the rest.

Definitely. We have loads of women training with us and it's a very respectful environment. Our coaches are super professional, and everyone is simply a student here, whatever your gender, age or nationality. The only place any of that matters is in how we tailor the learning to you.

We train people of all ages. Muay Thai is as much about technique, balance and timing as it is about power, and the coaches will scale everything to suit your body. If you have any injuries or health conditions, just let your coach know before class and check with your doctor if you're unsure.

No. Sparring is never forced on beginners. You'll spend your first sessions learning stance, footwork and the basic strikes, then putting them together on the pads with a trainer and on the heavy bags. When you're ready, light technical sparring is controlled and focused on learning, not hurting each other. Fighting is only for those who want it, and we'll guide you if that becomes your goal.

Phuket King is known for its technical approach to coaching, and good technique is the best injury prevention there is. Beginners mostly work pads and bags, so contact is very limited. Expect some sore muscles and maybe tender shins for the first week or two. That's completely normal and fades quickly as your body adapts.

Every group class welcomes beginners. Each day has a different technique focus, and the trainers split the room so newcomers get the attention they need.

Tip: the morning class is cooler and a great way to start the day. Check the latest times on our class timetable.

For your first week, once a day is plenty. Let your body adjust to the heat and the new movements. After that, many of our visitors train twice a day. If you're living here, two to four sessions a week will give you steady progress. Listen to your body, rest when you need to, and use our recovery area (sauna, steam room, ice bath and more) to stay fresh.

It's not essential, but a private lesson or two is a brilliant way to start. You get one to one time with a Thai trainer to nail your stance, guard and basic strikes, so you walk into group classes feeling confident. Many people mix privates with group classes throughout their stay.

Yes, our trainers coach in English every day, and Muay Thai has a lot of universal language: demonstration, repetition and a good "again!" from your trainer. You'll pick up a few Thai words along the way too.

Of course. Lots of our members arrive solo and leave with friends from all over the world. Between the classes, the cafe and our lakeside bungalows, it's very easy to become part of the Phuket King family.

Just check the timetable, grab a pass on our prices page and turn up about 10 to 15 minutes early for your first class so we can get you set up, sorted with gloves and introduced to your trainer. If you have any questions beforehand, message us on WhatsApp.

Our 2 week online course, Muay Thai Basics, takes you through all the basics: the stance, the weapons (punches, kicks, knees and elbows) and the philosophy behind the art. It's a great way to prepare and get far more out of your first week on the mats.

Beyond that, just get yourself as fit as you can. A bit of running, skipping and bodyweight work helps. You don't have to be fit to start, but everything helps. Our free technique videos are a good start too.

See the 2 week course

Yes. Our lakeside bungalows at Pangea Resort are right next to the gym, with group Muay Thai classes included in your stay, and Pangea Cafe serves healthy, seed oil free food. It's the easiest way to train, eat well and recover without worrying about transport. See the rooms