Getting Started in Bangkok
So, I found myself in Bangkok with some time on my hands and thought, why not try some real Thai boxing? Heard so much about it. Found a gym, nothing fancy, looked like they meant business. Walked in, a bit nervous honestly. The smell of liniment oil and sweat hit me straight away. It felt… authentic.
Paid my fee for a session. They didn’t waste much time. Pointed me towards some hand wraps. Getting those things on right was the first challenge. Felt like I was trying to wrap a mummy’s hand. A friendly guy, maybe another trainee, showed me the proper way. Big help.
The Actual Training Grind
Warm-up started. Jumping rope. Lots of it. Then stretching. My muscles were already complaining. Then came the shadow boxing. Tried to copy the trainers, probably looked ridiculous but hey, gotta start somewhere.
Then a trainer motioned me over. He grabbed some pads. Okay, this was it. He showed me the basic stance, the jab, the cross. Simple stuff first. He’d shout commands, “Jab! Cross! Hook!” My form was sloppy at first. He’d tap my arm, adjust my feet. Patient guy, surprisingly.
- Jab, cross drills
- Learning basic kicks (the teep, the roundhouse)
- Trying knees
- Endless pad work
Hitting those pads felt pretty good, a great way to vent some steam. But man, it was exhausting. Much harder than it looks. My arms felt like lead after a few rounds. The kicks were even tougher. Trying to swing my leg up high while keeping balance? Not easy. Fell over once or twice, trainer just grinned.
The session wasn’t just hitting pads though. There was some basic clinch work too, learning how to control an opponent up close. Felt awkward, but interesting. Lots of emphasis on technique, even for a total beginner like me.
How I Felt Afterwards
By the end, I was completely drenched in sweat. Like, soaked through my shirt. My knuckles were a bit sore, even with wraps and gloves. My legs felt shaky.
But honestly? I felt amazing. Tired, sure, but also really alive. Accomplished something new. It’s a tough workout, no doubt about it. Way more intense than just hitting the gym back home. You use your whole body.
Walked out of there feeling knackered but buzzing. Definitely something I’d want to do again if I get the chance. It’s a proper workout and you learn a real skill. Respect to the guys who do this professionally. It’s brutal.
