Muay Thai in the Far East (Of London)

• By Ellen O'Riordan on Mar 18, 2016

Muay Thai in the Far East (Of London)

Muay Thai is a combat sport from Thailand which is fast becoming one of the most popular mixed martial arts, as both a gripping ring sport and highly strengthening fitness form. It differs from Western boxing, often being described as the “Art of the Eight Limbs” because it utilizes attacks from the fists, elbows, knees, and feet.  It is a brutally effective fighting art that challenges the mind, body and spirit.  Many people who practice, will go with the intention of fighting, whilst others will learn the techniques for enjoyment and the immense fitness benefits.  East London has fully embraced the growing popularity of Muay Thai and has a number of top fighting venues teaching the sport.

KO Boodline, Hackney

Beginners are encouraged to join one of the introductory classes on offer, so they can get to grips with and ease into the sport.  The community at the club is one of sharing knowledge and encouraging others.  Muay Thai kickboxing is available for all, from beginners to advanced; both mixed and ladies only sessions and is also on offer for juniors between the ages of 6 and 12.  There are a choice of classes on 7 days a week.  A block of 10 classes is £95 and further discounts are available with larger bookings and for students and kids.

Other classes:  Kickboxing bag circuit, fitness and conditioning.

London Fight Factory, Old Street

The classes start with a conditioning workout before progressing to technique drills, pad work and further conditioning.  People unfamiliar with the sport are encouraged to watch a session or take part in a beginner session for free.  For both pay and play customers and members, there is a one off £25 joining fee.  Classes are then £15 drop in or £90 a month for an unlimited amount.

Other classes:  Boxing, BJJ, MMA, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, wrestling, strength and conditioning.

Diesel Gym, Limehouse

The instructors here have a long history with the martial art form, most of them having fought professionally.  It’s a friendly environment that provides a tough and rigorous training session.  They host a variety of Muay Thai classes aimed at kids, teens, ladies and general. There are a huge amount of classes held each day, so there will most certainly be one to suit everyone’s needs.   Most classes are £10-£15, but discounts are available for students and kids.  An £85 monthly membership gets you an unlimited amount of classes.

Other martial arts classes:  MMA, 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu, Wrestling.

London Shootfighters, Canary Wharf

The centre offers a wide range of fight based classes, all taught by highly knowledgeable and experienced instructors. Most of the coaches have competed to the highest level and in turn trained others, such as Team GB, to a world class level. The gym has a huge amount of weekly classes available in a variety of disciplines.  Muay Thai is held on Tuesday and Thursday Evenings 19:15-20:45.  Classes are £15 drop in, or monthly memberships are available for £90 which gets you unlimited classes and use of the gym.

Other martial arts classes:  MMA, No-Gi, BJJ, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, boxing, combat conditioning, kickboxing, wrestling.