15 Tips for Gym Owners and Coaches on Fostering Inclusivity in Muay Thai Gyms Posted on September 17, 2023September 22, 2023 By Angela Chang Muay Thai gyms are spaces where people come together to learn, train, and grow in their martial arts journey. As gym owners and coaches, it’s essential to create an environment that is welcoming, diverse, and inclusive for all individuals. In this article, we will discuss valuable tips on how gym owners and coaches can foster inclusivity in their Muay Thai gyms.Photo by Markus Winkler on Pexels.com1. Lead by ExampleGym owners and coaches play a pivotal role in setting the tone for inclusivity. Showcase respect for all individuals regardless of their background, gender, ethnicity, or skill level. When others see your commitment to inclusivity, they are more likely to follow suit.2. Promote a Safe and Respectful EnvironmentEstablish and communicate clear expectations regarding behavior within the gym. Zero tolerance policies for bullying, discrimination, and harassment should be enforced. This ensures that everyone feels safe and respected during training sessions.3. Use Inclusive LanguageBe mindful of the language you use in your communication. Address individuals by their preferred pronouns and avoid making assumptions about their background. Create an environment where everyone feels seen and acknowledged.4. Offer Diverse Classes and WorkshopsOrganize classes and workshops that cater to various skill levels, body types, and interests. Offering a range of options can make everyone feel welcome, regardless of their experience or goals in Muay Thai.5. Highlight Diverse Role ModelsShowcase diverse athletes and trainers as role models within your gym. This representation helps individuals from different backgrounds feel inspired and motivated to pursue Muay Thai.6. Provide Accessible FacilitiesEnsure that your gym is accessible to individuals with disabilities. Make necessary accommodations to support their training experience, such as ramps, wider entrances, and appropriate training equipment.7. Create Inclusive Marketing MaterialsYour gym’s marketing materials, including posters, social media posts, and website content, should reflect diversity. Use images and language that resonate with a wide range of individuals.8. Listen to FeedbackEncourage open communication and feedback from your gym members. Listen to their suggestions and concerns about inclusivity. This shows that you value their input and are committed to continuous improvement.9. Offer Scholarships or DiscountsTo make Muay Thai accessible to a wider audience, consider offering scholarships, internships, barter systems or discounts to individuals who may face financial barriers. This gesture demonstrates your commitment to inclusivity.10. Cultivate a Supportive CommunityFoster a sense of community where individuals support and uplift each other. Organize social events, team-building activities, and workshops that encourage interaction and bonding.11. Train Your Staff on InclusivityEducate your staff, including coaches and front desk personnel, about the importance of inclusivity. Provide training on diversity awareness and respectful communication.12. Celebrate DiversityEmbrace cultural celebrations and awareness events within your gym. This could involve recognizing holidays, heritage months, or holding workshops that educate members about different cultures.13. Address MicroaggressionsEducate your gym members about microaggressions and their impact. Create an environment where individuals can learn from their mistakes and grow without fear of judgment.14. Offer Gender-Neutral FacilitiesProvide gender-neutral changing rooms and bathrooms to accommodate individuals of all gender identities. This simple adjustment can greatly enhance the comfort of your gym members.15. Continuously Educate YourselfStay informed about issues related to diversity and inclusion. Educate yourself about cultural competence, unconscious bias, and ways to create an inclusive environment.Creating an inclusive Muay Thai gym environment requires ongoing commitment and effort. By implementing these tips, gym owners and coaches can foster a sense of belonging, support, and diversity that enriches the experience for every member. Remember that inclusivity benefits not only the individuals in your gym but also the sport of Muay Thai as a whole.Please support the continuation of content on Muay Ying via Patreon Fighting and Training Muay Thai equal rightsinclusivity
Muay Thai The Importance of Taking Up Space as Women in Muay Thai Posted on July 2, 2023March 23, 2023As a woman in Muay Thai, it is important to recognize the barriers and challenges that women face in taking up space in the gym and in the presence of the sport as a whole. In this article, we will discuss the importance of women taking up space in Muay Thai, the impact of patriarchy and societal/cultural expectations, and some concrete steps women can take to overcome these challenges. (If you’re not a woman but would like to learn more about becoming an ally to women, it’s highly encouraged you read this article as well.) Read More
Fighting and Training How Muay Thai Fighters Train in Thailand: Inside the Daily Routine Posted on November 10, 2024October 26, 2024Training Muay Thai in Thailand is a special experience for any martial artist. The training culture in Thailand is intense, focused, and entirely different from what most people encounter back home. Training routines are grueling, and trainers in Thailand have a reputation for helping you reach levels of endurance and skill that may seem impossible.This guide covers what it’s like to train like a Muay Thai fighter in Thailand. From the daily schedule of pro fighters to the unique training methods used, you’ll get a look at what to expect and how to prepare for the journey. Read More
Fighting and Training Running for Muay Thai: The Benefits, Working Your Way Up to It & How To Prevent Injury Posted on March 17, 2021August 7, 2023There are many aspects to becoming more serious about Muay Thai that are non-negotiable to most coaches. The one that has been talked about by all, dreaded by many, yet tried-and-true, is running. At the top of the Muay Thai pyramid, professional fighters in Thailand do long runs every morning, and have been for decades. It seems like anyone who is to be taken seriously in the sport needs to run a lot, or, at the very least, is expected to at some point. Read More