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
Fighting and Training Dealing with Fragile (Male) Ego: A Response to Sylvie’s Post, “KO’d My Clinch Partner in Training – And it Was a Good Thing” Posted on June 24, 2017August 28, 2019Before you read this post, please keep in mind that this is not referring to all men. When I saw the title of Sylvie’s post, I was a bit hesitant. I didn’t know what perspective this was being written from, and part of me was unsure of reading something that might be… Read More
Fighting and Training Train Hard, Smell Less: Hygiene Rules Every Muay Thai Fighter Should Follow Posted on May 12, 2025May 12, 2025Let’s talk about something that sometimes get overlooked with talking about Muay Thai training and the gyms we do the training in: hygiene. Read More
Fighting and Training The Rules of Hard Sparring & Clinching: The Compromise Posted on January 29, 2021October 27, 2024However, what if there could be a median between the light, playful technique-based Thai style of sparring, and the powerful, fast-paced Dutch style of sparring? Some say that there’s a time a place for hard sparring and that it can be worked into any regimen. However, it can also be argued that it’s more about the people you choose to do this with (and less about a forced environment). Controlled hard sparring and hard clinching with the right people can bring you the best of both worlds – the impeccable timing of the Thais and fearsome shots of the Dutch. Read More