Best Muay Thai Gyms in Pai

Best Muay Thai Gyms in Pai

ByJacob Garner

Highway 1095, the road of 762 bends which twists through the mountains north of Chiang Mai to where you will find the small town of Pai, a scenic and tranquil place that is considered a must-visit for travelers seeking a serene escape in the north of Thailand. 

Known for its laid-back atmosphere and rural landscapes, this quaint town has long been a haven for those yearning for a break from the bustling pace of city life. Yet, beneath its peaceful facade lies an unexpected undercurrent—a passion for Muay Thai that pulses through the town’s veins.

Amidst the soothing sounds of flowing rivers and swaying bamboo groves, Pai harbors a vibrant Muay Thai scene, boasting several gyms that cater to a diverse array of enthusiasts. From seasoned fighters honing their skills to curious travelers seeking an authentic martial arts experience, these gyms offer a gateway into the world of Thailand’s national sport.

In this article, we jump into the heart of Pai’s Muay Thai culture, exploring the nuances of the best gym Muay Thai gyms in Pai and uncovering the best options for every type of visitor. Whether you’re a dedicated fighter seeking rigorous training or a traveler looking to immerse yourself in a new adventure, Pai’s Muay Thai gyms promise an unforgettable experience tailored to your needs. Join us as we unravel the tapestry of Pai’s Muay Thai landscape, guiding you to the best gyms for your journey ahead.

Muay Thai Gyms in Pai

Charn Chai Muay Thai

Charn Chai Muay Thai

Charn Chai Muay Thai is one of, if not the most widely known and arguably the best Muay Thai gym in Pai.

It has a strong reputation for offering authentic Muay Thai training experiences in a traditional setting. The gym is popular among both local fighters and international visitors looking to immerse themselves in the culture of Muay Thai.

Headed by the gym’s founder Mr Bee, who previously fought under the name Mongkoldej Sitthepitak, a former number one ranked fighter in both Rajadamnern and Lumpinee Stadiums. The gym has many talented former champion coaches ranging from recently retired; former Thai national champ and one championship fighter Mahamonkol to Northern Champion Patiphol Keereepattanakul all of which combine to create a very technical and experienced coaching team and supportive environment for students of all levels

Charn Chai Muay Thai is most definitely one of the best places in Pai for those looking for a comprehensive Muay Thai experience, especially someone who might be new to the sport and looking for the best Muay Thai gym in Pai to progress from complete beginner all the way to their first fight, which is a common occurrence with the gym having both Thai and foreign fighters competing almost every week in Chiang Mai or in the newly established “Pai Fight Nights”.

Classes are structured in a traditional Thai style with technique, padwork and supervised bag drills combined with designated sparring and body weight S+C days as well as communal biweekly pre-training runs to Big Buddha.

Sitjemam Muay Thai

Sitjemam Muay Thai

Under new management since 2012, Sitjemam Muay Thai has quickly become one of the best Muay Thai gyms in Pai. 

Co-founders Ms Supannee ‘Mam’ Changpradit and her husband Mr Emmanuele Corti, have rejuvenated the gym with a focus on small group training, emphasizing quality and solid Muay Thai technique. 

Kru Mam uses her experience as an ‘A-License’ GrandMaster of Muay Thai and International Registered Referee and Promoter to work meticulously with training beginners to the sport as well as ensure that her sponsored fighters have opportunities to fight both locally and internationally. She is supported by a combination of both champions and active fighters on their coaching roster. 

Sitjemam Muay Thai would be the Best Muay Thai gym in Pai for those looking for a more personal start to Muay Thai, particularly women who may be on the lookout for a female coach to help build their confidence before branching out into busier more well known Muay Thai gyms.

Wisarut Muay Thai

Wisarut Muay Thai

Wisarut Muay Thai, one of the largest Muay Thai gyms in Pai, deliberately limits their classes to a maximum of 10 students. This ensures an optimal trainer-to-trainee ratio aiming to give each student ample time with instructors for a more enriching, personalized, and enjoyable experience.

The philosophy at Wisarut Muay Thai revolves around providing the best value for Muay Thai in Pai. They believe in placing people at the core of Muay Thai, offering an authentic immersion into Thailand’s ancient martial arts. The gym attempts to steer clear of westernized business models, claiming to create a deeper connection to genuine Thai culture.

Owned and operated by the local Wisarut family with deep roots in Pai for over 50 years, Wisarut Muay Thai embodies the spirit and tradition of Muay Thai. The Wisarut gym aims to offer not just a gym but a home away from home in the heart of Thailand’s martial arts scene, where anyone from anywhere can submerge themselves in this ancient art form.

Pai Fit

Pai Fit

Pai Fit is a new fitness and Muay Thai gym. Situated just off the popular walking street and a short drive from lush jungles and mountain ranges, it’s the perfect spot for fitness enthusiasts to work on themselves or travellers looking to take a break from the partying to get back into shape.

Their team comprises a mixture of Muay Thai trainers and fitness professionals, guaranteeing top-quality workouts at an affordable price. They offer a 90-minute Muay Thai fitness class suitable for all levels which aims to build cardio and strength specific to Muay Thai as well as specific Muay Thai classes for those looking to learn the technique of Muay Thai.

Arguably the best equipped Muay Thai gym in Pai, training here grants you full access to gym facilities, equipment, and a “relaxing sauna experience”. 

Pai Fit’s mission is to help you achieve your health and wellness goals through Muay Thai inspired training sessions. Whether you’re diving into Muay Thai or enjoying some sauna time, their passionate staff is dedicated to ensuring the best possible workout experience. Visit Pai Fit and begin your journey towards physical and mental transformation.

Pai Fit would be the best Muay Thai gym in Pai for those looking to casually approach the sport as part of their experience in visiting Pai or those looking to use the higher quality facilities to supplement their Muay Thai training, However, if Muay Thai is the “prime focus” of your trip to Pai then other gyms may be better suited.

  • ​Opening Hours: 8:00-20:00 (Mon-Sat)
  • Class times: Muay Thai Fitness: 9:30-11:00 (Mon-Sat) Muay Thai: 19:00-20:00 (Mon-Sun)
  • Address: ถนน เทศบาล ๑ Wiang Tai, Pai District, Mae Hong Son 58130
  • Website: https://paifit.com/
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paifitgym/

Pai

Pai boasts a variety of some of the best Muay Thai gyms in the north of Thailand, each with its own unique appeal and offerings. Whether you’re seeking traditional training at Charn Chai Muay Thai, small group classes at Sitjemam, or a comprehensive fitness experience at Pai Fit, there’s something to suit every visitor and fighter in town.

Training in Pai’s Muay Thai scene will not only allow you to improve your fitness and Muay Thai skills but also enjoy the North of Thailand’s rich martial arts culture

With welcoming atmospheres and beautiful surroundings not as easily available in other fight destinations like Bangkok or Chiang Mai, Pai stands out as a must-visit destination for both long-time Muay Thai enthusiasts and newcomers to the national sport of Thailand.

Strength and conditioning coach, Muay Thai practitioner and sports writer with a passion for all combat sports, from MMA to western boxing specialising in Muay Thai.