I went to Thailand, and all I got was a Muay Thai session

By Zaleha Kr
Photos By Esther Chung and Amanda Sangeetha Thomas

Muay Thai is the ancient battlefield art of Thailand that was first used by Siamese warriors. Known as the “Science of Eight Limbs”, it views the human body as a powerful fighting machine where the basic maneuvers include the use of knees, elbows, hands and feet. Fighters of this sport are challenged physically by the intense training and dedication they put into their performance, not to mention the potential irreversible scars and bruises. To a Muay Thai fighter, a fight isn’t only a physical contest, but also a mental one as it involves a lot of strategic thinking in order to overcome his opponent. To a newbie (like me), it did involve a way-too-early morning, sleep deprivation, and the thoughts of having potential bragging rights – that was my drive! Although I was constantly telling myself “Waking up tomorrow is going to be great…”, I didn’t really know that the outcome of a training session with professional Muay Thai fighters at Jitti Gym would be one of the most intense work-out sessions of my life.

The best work out in your life will begin at, JittiGym

I was feeling pumped and ready to rumble as soon as I saw the fighting ring. From the tying of the hemp romp, to the warming up routine, I knew that I was already running on adrenaline and I could not wait to start my first training session. According to preliminary research, traditional Muay Thai fighters used to wear hemp on their hands, and were known to apply resin to the hemp and then dip their hands in broken glass – luckily, a custom that is no longer practiced!

These trainers from Jitti Gym meant business. As I was observing their fast punches and swift kicks, it was already clear that these techniques could potentially leave a person with a concussion when full force is applied. In real fights between two boxers, the injuries suffered are real and lethal…so this sport is definitely not for the faint hearted (even though it was so awesome to watch a live match).

Warming up, before the kick-ass session starts

When my turn came, I didn’t expect to feel an overwhelming sense of nervousness and aggression. So, I punched as fast as I could and kicked as hard as I could…and it felt great! I couldn’t believe the burst of adrenaline that I was getting as I was swinging my body to maximize my impact on the training pads held by a trainer. The only thing that was distracting me from pushing myself to the limit was the feeling of dehydration and fatigue. Perhaps kicking the trainer onto the ground went a little too far (yeaaah, kinda got a little carried away there…) but I can honestly say the feeling of empowerment during those 15 minutes of intense training was on another level. All I could think of at the time was how I could utilize my limbs to my advantage and take that trainer down. Perhaps I am influenced by too many martial art movies and video games, but one thing I am certain of is that I am definitely going to be feeling this tomorrow…

Overconfidence will eventually, bring a girl down.

Zaleha Kr, 22, is in her final year in Bachelor of Arts majoring in International Studies and Communications. At 22, she still enjoys piggy-backs, Heinz Farley rusks and engaging in philosophical debates with 1 year olds. Currently looking for Waldo