Fighting and Training Signs a Gym is Actually Women-Friendly (And Why It’s More Complicated Than You Think) Posted on August 22, 2025August 9, 2025 By Angela Chang One of the most common questions I get is: “Do you know any women-friendly Muay Thai gyms?” I wish the answer was as easy as handing you a list. But here’s the truth: what makes a gym “women-friendly” isn’t as simple as having a few women on the mat.It’s one of the most basic and understandably asked questions. It comes from those completely new and wanting to start their Muay Thai journey, as well as from seasoned practitioners looking for a change in environment but unsure of what to look for before forking over high monthly training fees. Yet, it’s also a question that’s deeply nuanced and difficult to answer. In this article, I’ll break down why the question is so complex, what you should really be looking for, and then give you a starting checklist you can use when evaluating a gym. Read more
Muay Thai Empowerment or Exploitation? Addressing Sexual Misconduct in Combat Sports Posted on October 6, 2024October 6, 2024 By Angela Chang We need to talk AND do something about something that’s somehow become so pervasive and normalized in combat sports spaces. It’s enraging how often people in positions of power protect abusers instead of holding them accountable. Incidents ranging from verbal microaggressions to outright violence are far too common, and it’s time to confront the toxic culture that enables this. When victims of sexual assault turn to gym owners or coaches for safety and support, they’re often met with indifference—or worse, loyalty to the abusers. It’s clear that, in many cases, connections and reputations are valued over the safety and dignity of their students. Read more