Japanese students training at Chuwattana Gym, Bangkok, Thailand, 2009 Have you ever known you could have pushed just a little harder during training? Have you ever left the gym wondering why you even showed up? I suspect most of us have been there. For whichever reason(s), we experience days that disappoint, days we didn't realize our performance expectations, days where our general motivation lagged. Having lived and trained in Muay Thai in Thailand, I learned an invaluable practice which the general fitness enthusiast and athlete alike can benefit from: the art of not complaining. During training, questioning our trainers was frowned upon, as was complaining, both in our words and in … [Read more...]
6 Exercises to Strengthen and Condition Muscles for Martial Arts
Ever since the gravity-defying moves of Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan hit the big screen, many of us have developed a fascination for martial arts. Martial arts originally emerged out of a necessity for self-defence. These days, martial arts training is more about harnessing physical and mental strength. Whether you’re doing it for fun, or competitively, your stamina, flexibility and fitness level will all improve. But what about non-training days? You want to maintain your fitness levels and focus on building your endurance and power. Finding the right exercises to complement your martial arts training is essential. Check out this list of 6 exercises to strengthen and condition muscles … [Read more...]
3 Ways a Fitness Adventure Can Improve Your Health
Fitness adventures are designed to provide a way to explore the world alongside staying active with the sport. You might be training Muay Thai in Thailand, honing your silat skills in Indonesia, cycling, or rock climbing anywhere in the world, but whatever and wherever it is, it's all about getting you moving alongside some stunning backdrops. Whether you are just getting started on your fitness journey or you’re already into sporting activities but just want to spice up your routine with a bit of adventure, they can be a great way to inspire and motivate you. Read on to find out how taking a fitness adventure can improve your health. 1. They Can Be Motivating It could be … [Read more...]
10 Ways to Make Time to Workout
It sometimes feels impossible to make time to workout. This isn't just about Muay Thai or Martial Arts training, this is about any sort of training, aka the stuff you could have done when you didn't have time to make it to a proper class. You know how it is, you skip one day, then another, then it's been a few weeks since you made it to a class or off your couch. Obligations, in addition to stress often build up, as do the excuses we make. This is undeniably normal given the (sometimes?) crazy demands of our lives. Often, what'll help us out of our stress fueled, exhaustion laced, excuse ridden black hole is improving our time management skills. So here are ten time management tips to help … [Read more...]
When are You Ready for a Muay Thai Competition?
Muay Thai is a complex and intense martial art. It focuses on power, efficiency, and simple moves. For those who have seen the pros fight, you know exactly what we are talking about. Are you interested in competing in Muay Thai? If you are, there is a lot to consider about your fighting debut. You would not want to enter too early and be under prepared. However, many people feel that they are missing out if they do not compete. There is a middle ground when it comes to your first fight. Be sure to keep reading if you want to learn more! Are You Training? Before you enter your name into a competition, you want to have some experience under your belt. Are you training alone or with a … [Read more...]