Why Being Tough for the Sake of Being Tough Isn’t Worth It Posted on August 20, 2023August 7, 2023 By Angela Chang Muay Thai embodies the epitome of mental and physical resilience. Countless fighters dedicate themselves to pushing their boundaries in pursuit of mastery and victory. Yet, the distinction between striving for personal growth and forcing toughness for its own sake cannot be overstated. This article delves into the reasons why adopting toughness merely as a facade isn’t a prudent path and proposes alternative approaches for fostering both mental and physical strength.Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels.comDO: Challenge Yourself to Navigate Pad Rounds, Even When Exhaustion BeckonsUndoubtedly, stretching one’s limits during training not only polishes skills but also hones mental tenacity. However, there’s a vital distinction between that and coercing oneself into activities that one isn’t ready for. It’s absolutely acceptable to pause or step back when required—listening to one’s body takes precedence over pushing boundaries excessively. This cautious approach mitigates the risk of injury or overwhelming burnout.DO NOT: Engage in Aggressive Sparring to Prove a Point or DominateOn the flip side, refrain from engaging with individuals who value aggression over respect during sparring. While sparring remains a cornerstone of Muay Thai training, safety and sportsmanship must never be compromised. Injuries or exacerbating existing ones aren’t worthwhile outcomes. Sparring should revolve around learning and growth, never around asserting dominance. Should you encounter relentless aggression, asserting boundaries or abstaining from such interactions is justified.DO: Stand Against Bullying to Foster a Safe Gym EnvironmentBullying has no place within any gym or sport setting. Speaking out against such behavior is imperative for upholding a safe and supportive atmosphere. Strength isn’t synonymous with tolerating negativity; in fact, it takes courage to counter bullies. This action is pivotal in creating an environment where everyone can thrive.DO NOT: Conceal Your Feelings About Toxic BehaviorNever suppress your emotions, particularly in the face of toxic conduct. Acknowledging your feelings and addressing them head-on is an essential step towards healthier interactions. Distance yourself from harmful individuals and remember that safeguarding your well-being is an authentic display of strength, irrespective of outward perceptions.DO: Invest Time in Skill RefinementEmbrace the process of mastering new techniques and refining existing ones, as it serves as a cornerstone for improvement. Rushing through in an effort to prove your mettle isn’t advised. Honing technique not only advances your abilities but also reduces the risk of injuries, promoting overall performance.DO NOT: Embrace the “Go Hard or Go Home” Mentality UnconditionallyThe “go hard or go home” mindset, while motivational, can spiral into detrimental territory. Relentlessly pushing yourself can lead to burnout, injuries, and even mental health issues. Balance is key—prioritize rest, incorporate recovery days, and tune into your body’s signals. . Moreover, recognizing the necessity of recovery and self-care can avert burnout and injuries. Resisting the urge to perpetually operate at full throttle is an act of wisdom.Special Section for Women Fighters: A Vital PerspectiveFemale fighters often contend with added pressure in male-dominated realms. Yet, it’s crucial to remember that toughness doesn’t mandate sidestepping your boundaries or suppressing emotions. Vocalizing discomfort when boundaries are crossed is both appropriate and necessary.And above all else, remember that seeking assistance or guidance isn’t a sign of vulnerability—it’s a sign of strength.In conclusion, embodying the true spirit of Muay Thai involves nurturing both physical prowess and mental fortitude. Authentic strength emerges from a thoughtful balance, respecting one’s limits, and nurturing overall well-being. In the quest for mastery, remember that your journey is unique, and genuine toughness transcends bravado—it’s a reflection of wisdom and self-awareness.Need help? Consider booking a consultation with me Fighting and Training Muay Thai mental healthresiliencetoughness
Posted on May 26, 2020October 26, 2024It comes at no surprise that news about woman fighters is grossly underreported, so it’s nice to see these pictures and learn information about the women in the sport who competed when there was an even bigger disparity in terms of fight purses, opportunity and spotlight. Read More
Fighting and Training Balancing Fighting and a Full-time Office Job – Is it Possible? Posted on August 26, 2022August 31, 2022I have been living in Thailand now for 2.5 years. I’ve been working off and on during this time, part-time and full-time. I had some fight camps where I trained full-time too, so I have a good comparison between both worlds. Most fighters chose just to fight, and they often ask how I balance the two.I truly believe that you can have a career AND fight on a very high level. There are caveats, as well as limitations you should keep in mind, which I am happy to share. Read More
Muay Thai Top 6 Myths About Thai Fighters Posted on February 16, 2021February 16, 2021When the people think about Thailand, they often associate the country with elephants, beaches, and sex shows. Thailand is a complex country that deserves much more than to be boiled down to three things (that are, more often than not, nothing more than tourist traps). The same could be said about Muay Thai. The thought of Muay Thai can bring up pieces of information that people associate with the national sport of Thailand. Often over-generalized, much of this information is either outdated, passed down from one misinformed person to the next, or simply untrue. Let’s bust some common myths people believe about Muay Thai fighters in Thailand. Read More