If you’re interested in Muay Thai you may be wondering what Muay Thai gear you need before showing up to your first class.
In this post, we have broken down things down into:
- Essential (first day) Muay Thai equipment
- Muay Thai gear you need to train at home
- Additional Muay Thai equipment to consider
- Equipment for sparring
Check out our detailed posts with reviews, recommendations, and guides for Muay Thai gear here:
*Shin Guards for Muay Thai and MMA Reviewed
What Muay Thai Gear Do I Need for Training? – At a Glance
- For your first day of Muay Thai training all the Muay Thai gear you really need are:
- gloves
- wraps
- water
- comfortable clothes (shorts/tighter fitting shirt)
- In terms of sparring for Muay Thai you should have the below items:
- shin guards
- headgear
- cup/groin guards
- (for some fighters) elbow/knee pads
- Over time you can also build up your Muay Thai gear and consider the below additional items:
- jump (skipping) rope
- Muay Thai gear bag (gym bag)
- Muay Thai shorts
- ankle wraps
- athletic tape
- Namman Muay
- Additionally, after trying Muay Thai you can consider purchasing higher end equipment for your training – here are some of our recommendations:
- Mouthguards: Venum Challenger*
- Skipping (Jump) Rope: Sonic Boom Jump Rope*
- If you are planning to train Muay Thai at home here are some essentials items to consider (whether you are training at home by yourself or with a partner):
- heavy bag
- speed bag
- double end bag
- thai pads
- pull up bar
- mats for the floor
- light weights / kettle bell
- medicine ball
- Finally, always call and check with your Muay Thai gym on requirements, plus they may also let you borrow equipment for your first day.
When starting Muay Thai training, it is essential to invest in necessary gear to ensure your safety and comfort.
In my own training, I tend to rotate between more affordable gear and higher end gear. While I, now own higher end gloves, shorts, and shin guards, you can get by in Muay Thai, at least initially, with more affordable training gear.
The primary equipment includes
- boxing gloves
- hand wraps
- shorts (Muay Thai shorts)
- shirt (rash guard).
As your training advances, additional items such as
- shin guards
- headgear
- groin guards
What Are the Essential Items for Your First Day of Muay Thai?
On your first day of Muay Thai, there are a few essential items to be packed in your gym bag.
- boxing gloves
- hand wraps
- comfortable clothes
- water
While other Muay Thai gear may be necessary over time, I would just focus on having the above items for your first class.
Your boxing gloves, hand wraps, and comfortable clothes are pretty much non-negotiable.
Even though gyms may often provide rental gloves, over time, owning your own pair over time ensures the perfect fit, comfort, and hygiene.
Hand wraps protect your hands from injuries during training while the comfortable shorts (Muay Thai shorts) and shirt (rash guard) provide flexibility and mobility for executing various Muay Thai techniques.
Lastly, make sure to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated and a towel to wipe off sweat. While you may not need every item mentioned from the first day itself, it is good to remain prepared and focus on your training.
What Muay Thai Gear Do I Need for Sparring?
You likely won’t be sparring in your first day or first week or two of Muay thai, so you don’t necessarily need to worry about this equipment initially.
However, when you progress to sparring, additional protective gear becomes necessary to ensure the safety of both yourself and your training partners.
Apart from the essential items for training, you will need
- shin guards
- headgear
- groin guards
- (and possibly) elbow/knee pads
Shin guards play a crucial role in protecting your legs when executing kicks, while headgear offers extra safety in situations involving head-targeted strikes.
Groin guards shield the sensitive groin area from accidental hits, thus being an indispensable part of your sparring gear.
Elbow and knee pads can be beneficial for beginners since using these body parts in combat can be dangerous.
What Muay Thai Gear Do you Need for Training – Full List
1. Muay Thai Gloves
When beginning your Muay Thai journey, one of the first things you will need is a pair of high-quality gloves. If there is one piece of Muay Thai equipment that I recommend splurging on, at least initially, it is Muay Thai gloves. >> Jump to our full post on reviews for Muay Thai gloves
Our Recommendations for Muay Thai Gloves:
- Best Overall Muay Thai Glove: Fairtex BGVI*
- Best for Heavy Bag Work: Top Kings (12oz)
- Best for Sparring: Twins (16oz)
- Best Budget Gloves: RDX
- Best Designs: Yokkao
Factors to consider when buying gloves:
- size
- weight
- brand
- material
There are many reputable brands for Muay Thai gloves like Fairtex, Twins Special, and Top King, which are great options to consider. When selecting gloves, one major factor to keep in mind is their weight. Heavier gloves (around 14 oz -16 oz) are recommended for beginners for extra padding and protection, while lighter gloves (10-12oz) are more suitable for advanced practitioners and competitive fighting. Keep in mind that gloves conforming to the regulations of the sporting organization or gym you’re training at are important.
2. Hand Wraps
Hand wraps are another important part of your Muay Thai gear collection that should not be overlooked. Despite their simplicity, they serve an essential function: protecting your hands during training.
Our recommendation for some quality hand wraps are: Sanabul Elastic 180 inch Hand Wraps
Given that hands have 27 small bones, and boxing gloves don’t provide complete stability, hand wraps act as an additional layer of protection.
The two most common types of hand wraps are traditional cloth hand wraps and gel-lined inner gloves. While hand wraps are usually more popular.
Both have their advantages,
- with cloth wraps providing a more customized fit and better overall support
- while gel-lined gloves offer added convenience and ease of use.
Traditionally, hand wraps are made of high-quality, elastic material and measure around 180 inches in length, providing adequate protection for most individuals.
Mastery of the hand wrapping technique is essential for optimal support, as improperly wrapped hands can still lead to injuries. See below on our tips for how to quickly and easily wrap your hands for Muay Thai.
3. Muay Thai Shorts
A vital piece of equipment for any Muay Thai practitioner is a pair of Muay Thai shorts.
While they may seem to run a little smaller and a littler higher on the thigh (especially compared to Western sizes), I promise when you start to do high kicks and teeps you’ll appreciate the rang of motion they allow for. >>Jump to our full post on best Muay Thai shorts
Our Recommendation for Muay Thai Shorts:
- Best Overall: Fairtex
- Best Designs: Yokkao
- Best Value Muay Thai Shorts: Fluory
- Best Simple Design Shorts: Elite
- Best for Larger Guys: Anthem
- Best for Women: Fairtex Slimcut
Factors to consider when buying shorts:
- fit
- size
- material
- design
- brand
Muay Thai shorts feature wide leg openings and are typically made of lightweight, breathable materials like satin or nylon. The traditional shorts have an elastic waistband for a secure fit and side slits to accommodate the high, powerful kicks characteristic of Muay Thai.
Some popular brands that offer quality Muay Thai shorts include Fairtex, Twins Special, and Top King. It’s also a good idea to have a few pairs handy, as they may become soaked in sweat during intense training sessions, and having fresh shorts can help you maintain hygiene and comfort.
In addition to traditional styles, if you prefer larger shorts, some athletes may opt for MMA-style or Vale Tudo shorts as an alternative.
3. Shirt (Rash Guard)
When it comes to practicing Muay Thai, comfortable clothing is key. While you can wear a plain t shirt, it’s not recommended. If you’re not a fan of tighter fitting rash guards or dry wicking active shirts, you can also opt for a tank top.
When looking for a shirt to wear for Muay Thai training, you want to look for a shirt that is:
- breathable
- tight fitting
- moisture-wicking
- usually made of synthetic fibers (like spandex, polyester, nylon)
Our recommendation for shirts or rash guards to train Muay Thai in are:
Rash guards are tight-fitting shirts constructed from moisture-wicking and quick-drying materials. They help to prevent skin chafing and irritation during intense training sessions while offering some sun protection if you train outdoors.
3. Water Bottle
There’s not much that needs to be said about bringing water and a water bottle to Muay Thai – you’re going to sweat quite a bit so hydration is key.
The only thing I’d recommend is buying a water bottle or water jug that holds a large amount of water. I eventually splurged on one of those big yeti’s, but any water bottle will do as long as it holds a lot.
Hydration is essential for any athlete, especially those participating in intense combat sports such as Muay Thai. As a result, having a sturdy and reliable water bottle should be a priority for anyone looking to train effectively and safely. Dehydration can lead to a decrease in physical performance, dizziness, and severe cases can be life-threatening.
On average, a 32-ounce bottle should suffice for most practitioners. If you train for extended periods or engage in hard sparring, consider a larger capacity or bringing multiple bottles.
4. Bringing a Towel
Another obvious item that I recommend bringing to Muay Thai is a towel. If you tend to sweat more (like me) having a small towel on hand will be a blessing for both you and your training partner – especially when working from the clinch.
Other Items to Buy as You Continue to Train Muay Thai
As you progress in your Muay Thai training, there are a few additional items that you might want to consider to enhance your overall experience.
Again, these items are not strictly mandatory but can make training more comfortable and help you get the most out of your practice sessions.
1. Mouth guard
If you plan to spar in Muay Thai (again, this usually wont happen during your first day or first couple weeks in training), we strongly recommend buying a mouth guard. >> Jump to our full post on best mouth guards
Our Recommendation for Best Mouth Guards:
- *Best Overall:* Venum Challenger
- Most Easy to Breathe with: Sisu
- Most Protection: Shock Doctor
- Best Fit: Impact Custom
When choosing a mouth guard, it is essential to select one that offers a comfortable and secure fit to avoid discomfort and difficulty in breathing. Boil-and-bite mouth guards are a popular choice, as they can be molded to fit the shape of your mouth.
For professional fighters or those seeking a more customized fit, many athletes opt for custom-made mouth guards from their dentists.
2. Shin Guards
I’d probably place shin guards as equally if not more importan than a mouth piece for Muay Thai especially when sparring. >> Jump to our full post on the best shin guards
Our Recommendation for Shin Guards:
- Best Premium Shin Guards: Fairtex SP5
- Best for Beginners: XMartial Combat Sports
- Best Budget Pair of Shing Guards: Sanabul
- Best for Sparring: Top Kings
Shin guards shield the shin and instep from impacts during training and sparring. They come in various styles and materials, with the primary purpose of minimizing pain and injury during high-impact kicks.
When selecting shin guards, prioritize those that offer ample padding, secure fit, and appropriate coverage areas. High-quality shin guards should be made with durable materials that can withstand repeated impacts, providing long-lasting protection during countless training sessions. One advantage of investing in a reliable pair of shin guards is that they can effectively enhance your confidence and performance, as you won’t have to worry about injuring yourself or your sparring partner.
3. Head Gear
Although not as common in Muay Thai as in other combat sports like boxing, headgear is sometimes worn during sparring.
While some Muay Thai fighters prefer head gear, many don’t – so it’s always important to check with you gym and Muay Thai instructor.
Plus if you plan to compete at an amateur level one day, depending on the organization they may or may not require your to wear headgear.
For me personally, when sparring I felt that head gear just got in the way and didn’t really help much with absorbing impact so wearing head gear will likely come down to personal preference.
Selecting the right headgear depends on various factors, such as size, fit, and the level of protection it offers. A well-fitting headgear should be snug and comfortable, without obstructing your vision or affecting your mobility. Padding is another crucial aspect to consider, as it directly influences the level of protection provided against impacts. Some headgear options also feature additional padding around the cheeks or chin for enhanced facial protection.
4. Ankle Wraps
Ankle wraps, also known as ankle supports or guards, are an important piece of Muay Thai gear that provides additional support, stability, and protection to the ankles during training sessions.
Your feet and ankles will likely take a beating in the initial months of training Muay Thai, and they likely won’t be used to the type fo training. So ankle wraps or ankle supports are a good option to give them some padding and support.
Made from elastic materials, ankle wraps offer compression and warmth, helping to prevent common injuries like sprains and strains and promoting smoother footwork. Besides the functional benefits, ankle wraps also impart a sense of style, with various designs and colors available to suit individual preferences.
5. Knee and Elbow Pads
While not as popular or as often used as shin guards and ankle supports, knee and elbow pads are some other pieces of Muay Thai gear you can consider if you’re looking for extra padding.
They are sometimes good for beginners, as improper striking techniques can lead to severe damage to the bones or joints.
Generally, if my knees or elbows feel sore from training, I’ll pop on one of these pads for a week or two until they are healed up.
High-quality pads typically consist of a combination of impact-absorbing foam and durable outer material to provide maximum protection. Side note: Some pads also offer moisture-wicking and anti-odor properties to keep you comfortable during intense sessions. Be sure to choose pads that fit snugly without restricting your mobility, as poorly fitted protective gear can hinder your performance.
6. Jump Rope (Skipping Rope)
A jump rope, also known as a skipping rope, is pretty common in Muay Thai training and is often used as a warm up before class.
This simple yet efficient piece of equipment improves your cardiovascular endurance, agility, footwork, and overall balance, all of which are crucial for Muay Thai performance. Jumping rope for just 10-15 minutes per day can significantly elevate your heart rate, making it an ideal warm-up exercise.
Skipping rope also helps to strengthen the muscles in your legs, calves, and core, contributing to your overall power and stability during training and combat.
Keep in mind that selecting a suitable jump rope is essential – opt for one with adjustable length, comfortable, weighted handles, and a cable that is neither too light nor heavy for your training needs.
7. Athletic Tape
Athletic tape is sometimes used for Muay Thai practitioners, serving multiple purposes during training and competitions. See below for how to properly tape and wrap your ankles for Muay Thai.
Firstly, it provides support and stabilization to vulnerable joints, such as wrists and ankles, reducing the risk of injury. The tape works by offering external reinforcement to the joints, helping them to maintain the proper alignment even during high-impact movements like kicks and punches.
Lastly, athletic tape can help with injury prevention and management by offering compression to areas where swelling or bruising may occur. By compressing the area, it aids in controlling inflammation and promoting faster recovery times.
8. Sparring Gloves
Unlike regular training gloves, sparring gloves typically come in a heavier weight, ranging from 14 oz -20 oz, to offer more padding and impact absorption. This increased padding makes sure your sparring partner is not subjected to excessive force, while the heavier weight helps to build hand strength and improve technique.
Our Recommendations for Sparring Gloves Are:
Along with size and weight, another essential aspect to consider when choosing sparring gloves is their fit. It’s crucial to have gloves that fit your hands snugly, without being overly tight, to provide adequate support to your wrists and prevent injuries.
Many reputable brands, such as Fairtex and Twins, offer gloves designed specifically for Muay Thai sparring, taking into account the unique needs of this sport. Those gloves usually offer sufficient padding and extra wrist support.
10. Namman Muay
Now we are certainly not in the section of items that are required for Muay Thai, but Namman Muay, also known as Thai liniment oil, is another pretty common item you’ll see used by Muay Thai practitioners.
This oil has been used in the sport for centuries and is highly regarded for its beneficial properties. The primary use of Namman Muay is to warm up muscles before training sessions, which helps to prepare the body for the intense physical activity that follows and minimizes the risk of injury. It is applied by massaging a few drops of the oil onto the muscles, increasing blood flow, and allowing for a more comfortable and effective warm-up.
One advantage of using Namman Muay is that it can also aid in post-workout recovery. By using the oil after training sessions, you can help to soothe sore muscles, improve circulation, and promote healing. In fact, many practitioners consider it an indispensable part of their Muay Thai routine.
Side note: when seeking to purchase Namman Muay, look for authentic Thai brands to ensure that you receive the highest quality product, as knockoffs or diluted versions may not provide the same benefits.
9. Gym Bag (To Carry Your Gear)
I put off buying a gym bag longer than I’d like to admit. The trunk of my care was filled with miscellaneous training equipment, and I’d use a combination of shopping bags and old school back packs to carry gear to and from class. >> Jump to our full post on (bjj) gym bags
Our Recommendation for Gym Bags:
- Best Duffle Bag: Under Armour Undeniable Duffle Bag
- Bset Back Pack: Gold BJJ Jiu Jitsu Backpack
If you’re looking for convenience, the one item I recommend splurging on is a gym bag with multiple different compartments for clean and dirty gear that can hold all of you Muay Thai Equipment (gloves, wraps, clothes, water, shin guards, head gear etc)
When it comes to Muay Thai, owning a reliable and spacious bag to carry all your valuable gear is critical. Having a durable bag is not only essential for transporting your training equipment but also for keeping your gear organized and protected.
Keep in mind that choosing a bag also comes down to personal preference. Options range from duffle bags and backpacks to gym-specific bags designed for combat sports. When selecting a bag for your Muay Thai gear, consider factors such as material, size, weight, and durability.
What Muay Thai Equipment Do I Need for Sparring?
For sparring in Muay Thai I’d recommend:
- gloves
- wraps
- mouth guard
- shin guards
- groin protector (or cup)
- and possibly (head gear/elbow pads/knee pads)
What Are Some Essential Items for Training Muay Thai at Home?
While training Muay Thai at home, several essential items can enhance your practice and yield better results.
The following list consists of items that cater to both technique and conditioning aspects:
- Heavy bag: A staple in Muay Thai training, a heavy bag provides a solid target for practicing strikes and kicks. If space is limited, consider a free-standing bag or a lighter alternative like a double-end bag, which can be attached to the floor and ceiling. In addition to a heavy bag you can also consider a speed bag and double end bag.
- Gloves and hand wraps: High-quality gloves and hand wraps not only offer protection for your hands but also improve striking technique. Be sure to select gloves appropriate for your size and training intensity needs. (You can also consider thai pads if you will training at home with a partner)
- Skipping rope: An excellent tool for improving agility, coordination, and endurance, a skipping rope is an affordable and versatile equipment choice for at-home Muay Thai training.
- Yoga mat (or other types of training mats): A yoga mat provides comfort for stretching and floor-based exercises, as well as traction for dynamic movements during shadowboxing and conditioning.
- Mirror: A large mirror is helpful for observing and adjusting your technique, ensuring proper form during solo drills and shadowboxing sessions.
- Other training and fitness equipment like:
- weights
- kettle bell
- medicine ball
- pull up bar
Thanks for reading all! I hope this post has given you some basic info on Muay Thai gear and what equipment you might need for Muay Thai training -Zack
Frequently Asked Questions Related to Muay Thai Gear
What Essential Muay Thai Gear Do I Need for Training?
As a beginner in Muay Thai, there are several essential pieces of gear that you should invest in to make sure your training is safe, comfortable, and effective.
Some key items to consider include gloves, hand wraps, and appropriate attire.
Firstly, it’s crucial to invest in a good pair of Muay Thai gloves. These gloves not only protect your hands from injuries but also ensure that you don’t hurt your training partner or damage the training equipment.
Secondly, hand wraps are essential for providing support to your wrists, knuckles, and overall hand structure. Hand wraps can help prevent injuries by securing the small bones and soft tissues in place.
Lastly, wearing proper attire during training is necessary for unrestricted movement, especially when executing kicks and knee strikes. Muay Thai shorts provide a wide range of motion for your legs, allowing you greater flexibility during training. Alternatively, MMA shorts or Vale Tudo shorts can also be suitable options. Aside from shorts, you may also wear a dry-fit t-shirt or a breathable Muay Thai rash guard for added comfort.
What size gloves do I need for Muay Thai?
Gloves are usually measured in ounces (oz), ranging from 8 oz to 18 oz; the heavier the glove, the more padding it offers. For beginners, 12 oz to 14 oz gloves are typically ideal, as they provide adequate protection while also allowing you to practice techniques effectively.
If you weigh over 200 pounds, consider opting for 16 oz gloves for added protection.
One advantage of using heavier gloves for training is the increased weight resistance, helping build your shoulder and arm strength.
Over time, you may wish to invest in multiple pairs of gloves with varying weights for different types of training, such as lighter gloves for pad work and heavier ones for sparring.
Can You do Muay Thai with No Experience?
Yes, you can start Muay Thai training with no prior experience.
Many martial arts schools and gyms offer beginner-friendly classes designed to introduce newcomers to the sport.
In these classes, instructors focus on basic stances, footwork, punches, kicks, and defense techniques.
As a beginner, you must be patient with your progress, understanding that acquiring new skills takes time and practice. Keep in mind that proper guidance from an experienced instructor is crucial for your safety and ensuring you grasp the fundamentals properly.
The big advantage of starting with no experience is that you have the opportunity to develop a strong foundation, without any preconceived notions or bad habits from other martial arts. Side note: before you begin Muay Thai training, consult your doctor to make sure you are medically fit and clear to participate.
What Should I Wear for Muay Thai?
When it comes to what you should wear for Muay Thai training, comfort and mobility are of utmost importance.
Most practitioners opt for Muay Thai shorts or mma shorts, which are specifically designed to enable the range of motion required during a session. For a shirt most people usually wear a tighter fitting T shirt or sleeveless shirt or rash guard.
For women, investing in a good-quality sports bra is essential for added support and comfort. In general, choose attire that is lightweight, breathable, and specifically designed for Muay Thai or other combat sports activities to improve performance and comfort throughout your training.
Does Your Gym Let You Borrow Muay Thai Equipment?
Gyms have different policies when it comes to borrowing or renting Muay Thai equipment. Some gyms may offer complimentary equipment for newcomers, while others might charge a rental fee.
It is advisable to check with your gym beforehand to get accurate information on their policies regarding Muay Thai gear.
While borrowing equipment can be a convenient short-term solution, especially for beginners, it may not be the best option in the long run. One of the advantages of having your own equipment is that it fits you perfectly and has been broken in to your comfort level. Borrowed gear, on the other hand, may not fit properly and could potentially hinder your performance.
Furthermore, hygiene can be a concern, as borrowed gear may not be cleaned thoroughly, which could lead to unpleasant odors and potential bacteria buildup.
How Do I Wrap My Ankles for Muay Thai?
Wrapping your ankles for Muay Thai is a crucial step in protecting your joint and preventing injuries during training and sparring. To properly wrap your ankles, follow these three simple steps:
Begin by selecting a suitable pair of elastic ankle wraps or Muay Thai ankle guards. These should provide a snug fit, enough to support the joint without being too tight or restrictive.
Start by placing the wrap just above your toes and begin wrapping around the foot, making sure to cover the arch and ball of the foot. This helps in providing a secure base for your foot and aids in increased traction when moving about during practice.
Gradually make your way upwards towards the ankle, covering the area in a figure-eight pattern. This method ensures proper joint support and helps prevent any unnecessary twisting or rolling of the ankle. As you wrap around the ankle, make sure the wrap is tight enough for stability but not so much that it interrupts blood flow.
Take note that these shouldn’t be too tight on your skin, as that may cause discomfort or hinder your overall performance.
One advantage of using ankle wraps is that they not only provide adequate joint support but also help prevent slips during Muay Thai training. Besides that, they can give you a mental boost, knowing that you have an extra layer of protection while executing high-speed movements and powerful kicks.
Do You Always Have to Wear Wraps Under Your Gloves?
Wearing wraps under your gloves for Muay Thai is not always mandatory, but it is highly recommended. The primary reason is that hand wraps provide an extra layer of protection to your hands, wrists, and knuckles, which can help prevent injuries during training and sparring sessions.
Using hand wraps under your gloves has several key benefits. First, they help stabilize the many small bones and joints in your hands, reducing the risk of fractures or dislocations. Secondly, hand wraps serve as a cushion between your gloves and skin, helping to absorb sweat and minimize friction that can lead to blisters or irritation.
What’s the Difference between Sparring Gloves and Non Sparring Gloves?
Sparring gloves are specially designed for practicing with partners, as they offer enhanced protection for both fighters. These gloves typically feature extra padding, and their weight ranges from 14 to 20 ounces, depending on your needs and experience.
Non-sparring gloves – also known as training or bag gloves – are meant for specific training drills, such as hitting punching bags or working with pad holders. These gloves usually weigh between 10 to 16 ounces and are lighter than sparring gloves. The padding in non-sparring gloves is more focused on protecting the wearer’s hands from the impact of hitting hard surfaces.
Are Boxing Gloves the Same as Muay Thai Gloves?
At first glance, boxing gloves and Muay Thai gloves may appear similar, but there are subtle differences in design, construction, and functionality. Muay Thai gloves cater to the specific needs of the sport by allowing for a greater range of motion and accommodating the various striking techniques utilized in Muay Thai.
Boxing gloves are designed with a more compact, curved shape, providing a snug fit around the hand. This design focuses primarily on protecting the hands for punching and offers ample wrist support. However, the rigid construction of boxing gloves can limit finger mobility and make it difficult for Muay Thai practitioners to clench their fists for techniques like clinching and catch-and-counter maneuvers.
Muay Thai gloves feature a more flexible structure, with slightly wider cuffs for improved hand and finger movement. This flexibility enables fighters to utilize clinching—a crucial aspect of Muay Thai—along with executing diverse striking techniques. Furthermore, Muay Thai gloves generally have padding distributed more evenly across the glove, providing additional protection for the back of the hand, important for blocking kicks.
While beginners may use boxing gloves for Muay Thai, transitioning to specialized Muay Thai gloves as your experience progresses is recommended for better performance and safety. Keep in mind that switching between the two glove types may require some adjustment, so make sure to familiarize yourself with both styles during training.
Do You Spar on the First Day of Muay Thai?
Generally, sparring is not practiced on the first day of Muay Thai for beginners.
The initial focus of training lies in learning proper techniques, stance, and combinations.
On the first day, instructors usually teach students basic warm-up exercises, striking techniques, footwork, and essential defensive skills. Keep in mind that every gym operates according to its unique methods and philosophies, which means that some gyms might have different practices.
However, it is important to understand that rushing into sparring without sufficient knowledge and preparation can be risky and counterproductive.
Do I Need a Mouth Guard for Muay Thai?
Yes, a mouth guard is a critical piece of safety equipment necessary for Muay Thai training.
If you are doing bag work or basic, light drills with a partner a mouth guard likely isn’t necessary. However, if you are sparring or even doing light sparring we do recommend always using a mouth guard.
There are various mouth guards available on the market, and the type you choose depends on your specific needs and budget. Boil-and-bite mouth guards are a popular choice for beginners, as they offer a customized fit after biting down on the softened material. Custom-fitted mouth guards, which are molded by a dentist to ensure a perfect fit, are more suitable for intermediate and advanced Muay Thai practitioners.
Zack is an avid jiu jitsu practitioner and martial arts nerd. He currently holds a brown belt in BJJ. When not on the mats or in the gym, he can be found going for walks with his wife, attempting (and often failing) to train his dog, and frequently obsessing over a specific hobby only to forget about it a week later.