Are you visiting Phuket and looking to train Muay Thai or MMA near MMA Guy Cafe in Chalong?
Phuket has become a must visit for martial arts artists and fighters, with dozens of world-class gyms scattered across the island. In this article, we'll focus specifically on the best training options within easy reach of MMA Guy Cafe in Chalong, so you can conveniently grab a post-workout coffee or meal after your training session.
Why Train Muay Thai or MMA in Phuket?
Thailand is the birthplace of Muay Thai, and Phuket has emerged as the international capital for training this ancient martial art. The island offers an unparalleled combination of:
- Authentic training from former stadium champions
- Modern facilities catering to international visitors
- Year-round tropical training weather
- Affordable training and accommodation options
- A supportive community of like-minded martial artists
Whether you're looking to lose weight, learn self-defense, or prepare for competition, Phuket's gyms offer programs for all levels and goals.
Top 10 Gyms Near MMA Guy Cafe in Phuket
After personal experience and collecting authentic reviews from local sources, we've identified the ten best gyms within convenient distance of MMA Guy Cafe in Phuket. Each offers something unique, so you can find the perfect fit for your training goals.
1. Tiger Muay Thai & MMA
Tiger Muay Thai stands as Phuket's most internationally recognized training center, and for good reason. This sprawling complex offers everything a martial artist could dream of, from traditional Muay Thai to modern MMA training.
Why Train at Tiger Muay Thai:
- World-class facilities with multiple rings, MMA cages, and fitness areas
- Training alongside UFC champions like Petr Yan and Valentina Shevchenko
- Future Champs like Ilkhom Nazimov and Daniil Donchenko currently training for fights.
- Comprehensive class schedule with options for all skill levels
- On-site accommodation, restaurant, and recovery facilities
- Professional-level coaching for those looking to compete
What Sets It Apart: Tiger Muay Thai's reputation attracts elite fighters from around the world, creating an inspiring environment even for beginners.
Perfect For: Particularly good for those who want to try multiple disciplines in one location.
2. Phuket Grappling Academy
Location: By Chalong Circle, Chalong, Phuket
Website: phuketgrapplingacademy.com
Website: phuketgrapplingacademy.com
For those interested in ground-based martial arts, Phuket Grappling Academy offers specialized training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and wrestling in a focused, high-quality environment.
Why Train at Phuket Grappling Academy:
- Ranked as the #1 Grappling Gym in Asia via ADCC Asia
- Specialized classes in BJJ, NoGi Grappling, and Freestyle Wrestling
- High-level instruction from experienced coaches
- More affordable than many other grappling options in Phuket
- Convenient location by Chalong Circle, very close to MMA Guy Cafe
What Sets It Apart: Phuket Grappling Academy stands out for its specialized focus on grappling arts and its reputation for high-quality instruction without the premium price tag of larger facilities. The academy attracts serious practitioners looking for technical development rather than a tourist experience.
Perfect For: Ideal for practitioners who prefer a focused training environment with skilled training partners.
Open Mat Saturday 12:00.
3. Cobra Muay Thai Phuket
Location: 66/11 Moo 10, Thambon Chalong, Amphoe Moeang Thalang, Phuket
Website: cobramuaythaiphuket.com
Website: cobramuaythaiphuket.com
Cobra Muay Thai offers a unique combination of traditional Muay Thai training with resort-like amenities in a beautiful setting with views of Big Buddha.
Why Train at Cobra Muay Thai:
- Quality Muay Thai training with varied drills and lessons
- Additional amenities including ice baths, pools, and jacuzzi
- Beautiful location with Big Buddha views
- Limited to 25 spots, ensuring more personalized attention
- Associated accommodation at Chalong Chalet Resort
- Convenient location in Chalong near MMA Guy Cafe
What Sets It Apart: Cobra Muay Thai distinguishes itself by combining serious training with luxury recovery options. The limited class size and additional amenities create a more exclusive training experience that balances hard work with proper recovery.
Perfect For: Those who want quality Muay Thai training but also value recovery facilities and a beautiful training environment. Great for practitioners who appreciate a more exclusive, limited-capacity training setting.
4. Phuket Chalong Muaythai
Location: Chalong, Phuket
Phuket Chalong Muaythai is a newer gym in the Chalong area that offers authentic Muay Thai training with a focus on providing fight opportunities for students.
Why Train at Phuket Chalong Muaythai:
- Coaches can provide fight opportunities for those looking to compete
- Located in Chalong, close to MMA Guy Cafe
- Authentic Muay Thai training
- Newer facility with fresh energy
- Ring and Octagon in a wide space
What Sets It Apart: This is invaluable for those who want to test their skills in real competition during their stay in Thailand.
Perfect For: Practitioners looking to gain experience in Muay Thai.
5. Lions MMA Club
Location: 45, 28 Soi Ta-iad, Chalong, Mueang Phuket District
Social Media: Instagram - @lionsmmaclubphuket
Social Media: Instagram - @lionsmmaclubphuket
Located on Phuket's famous "Fitness Street" (Soi Ta-iad), Lions MMA Club offers training in multiple martial arts disciplines in a convenient location.
Why Train at Lions MMA Club:
- Multiple disciplines including Muay Thai, MMA, BJJ, Kickboxing, Gi & No-Gi
- Located on Soi Ta-iad, Phuket's "Fight Street"
- Approximately 200 meters from some accommodations on Fitness Street
What Sets It Apart: Lions MMA Club offers the convenience of training in multiple martial arts disciplines in a single location. Its position on Soi Ta-iad puts it in the heart of Phuket's martial arts community.
Perfect For: Those who want to explore different styles during their stay.
6. Singha Muay Thai Gym
Singha Muay Thai offers a warm, welcoming environment with legitimate Thai training methods.
Why Train at Singha Muay Thai:
- Authentic, family-run gym with a traditional approach
- Known for training championship-level fighters
- Experienced instructors teaching proper Muay Thai technique
- Smaller class sizes allowing for more individual attention
- Convenient location in Chalong near MMA Guy Cafe
What Sets It Apart: Singha Muay Thai provides a more authentic, "old school" Thai training experience compared to the more commercialized gyms.
Perfect For: Great for those who want to understand the cultural aspects of Muay Thai alongside the physical training.
7. Rattachai Muay Thai Gym
Location: Chalong, Mueang Phuket District
Website: www.muaythairattachai.com
Contact: contact@muaythairattachai.com
Website: www.muaythairattachai.com
Contact: contact@muaythairattachai.com
Rattachai Muay Thai Gym offers traditional training with a team that includes former Lumpinee Stadium champions, providing an authentic experience with high-level technical instruction.
Why Train at Rattachai Muay Thai:
- Traditional training methods taught by experienced Thai trainers
- Team includes multiple Lumpinee Stadium champions
- Strong focus on proper technique and Thai fighting style
- Convenient Chalong location near MMA Guy Cafe
What Sets It Apart: Rattachai places strong emphasis on understanding the cultural and historical aspects of Muay Thai alongside physical training. This creates a more holistic learning experience that goes beyond just the techniques.
Perfect For: Those interested in traditional Muay Thai with a cultural education component. Ideal for martial artists who want to understand the "why" behind techniques while training with championship-level instructors.
8. Dragon Muay Thai
Location: Ta-iead Ao Chalong, Mueang Phuket District
Website: www.phuketdragonmuaythai.com
Contact: phuketmuaythai@gmail.com or info@phuketdragonmuaythai.com
Website: www.phuketdragonmuaythai.com
Contact: phuketmuaythai@gmail.com or info@phuketdragonmuaythai.com
Dragon Muay Thai combines expert-level training with a beautiful natural setting, creating a unique training environment that's both challenging and inspiring.
Why Train at Dragon Muay Thai:
- High-level technical instruction from experienced trainers
- Beautiful training setting with tropical gardens and ocean views
- Strong track record of producing successful competitive fighters
- Comprehensive Thai boxing and kickboxing programs
- Located in the Chalong area, accessible from MMA Guy Cafe
What Sets It Apart: Dragon Muay Thai offers a unique combination of serious, high-level training in a picturesque environment. The beautiful setting with views of the Andaman Sea provides a refreshing training atmosphere that can help keep you motivated through tough sessions.
Perfect For: Serious practitioners who want expert instruction in a beautiful setting. Good for those who find that natural surroundings enhance their training experience.
9. Sinbi Muay Thai
Location: Rawai, Mueang Phuket District (southern tip of the island, near Nai Harn beach)
Website: www.sinbimuaythai.com
Contact: camp@sinbimuaythai.com
Website: www.sinbimuaythai.com
Contact: camp@sinbimuaythai.com
Sinbi Muay Thai is one of the first established Muay Thai gyms in Phuket, offering traditional training in a location near the beautiful Nai Harn beach.
Why Train at Sinbi Muay Thai:
- Traditional gym with authentic Muay Thai training
- "Heaps of great trainers" according to reviews
- Consistent, high-quality instruction
- Located near Nai Harn beach (voted Phuket's best beach)
- One of the original Muay Thai gyms in Phuket
What Sets It Apart: While a bit farther from MMA Guy Cafe than other options, Sinbi Muay Thai offers some of the most consistent, authentic training on the island. Its location near Nai Harn beach also allows you to combine training with beach relaxation.
Perfect For: Those willing to travel a bit farther for quality, consistent training in a traditional setting. Great for longer-term visitors who want to combine training with beach time at Nai Harn.
10. Pchai Muay Thai Gym
Location: P’Chai Muay Thai & MMA, 81, 49 SOI SAMAKKHEE 2, Rawai, Phuket, 83130
Social Media: Instagram - @pchai_muaythai
Social Media: Instagram - @pchai_muaythai
Pchai Muay Thai Gym is a newer facility that offers quality training worth driving with your scooter a bit farther for.
Why Train at Pchai Muay Thai Gym:
- Quality training that justifies the extra distance from MMA Guy Cafe
- Newer gym with fresh energy and approach
- Worth considering for those prioritizing training quality over location convenience
What Sets It Apart: Coaches and fighters are passionate and helpful.
Perfect For: Those willing to train with intensity and have the will to improve.
How to Choose the Right Gym for You
With so many excellent options near MMA Guy Cafe, how do you choose the right one? Consider these factors:
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Your Experience Level: Beginners might prefer gyms like Singha Muay Thai that offer more personalized attention, while experienced fighters might benefit from the competitive environment at Tiger Muay Thai or seek fight opportunities at Phuket Chalong Muaythai.
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Training Goals: Looking to lose weight and get fit? Any of these gyms will work. Preparing for competition? Tiger Muay Thai, Pchai, and Phuket Chalong Muaythai have strong connections to fight opportunities. Want to focus on grappling? Phuket Grappling Academy is your best bet.
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Preferred Atmosphere: Do you want the energy of a large international gym (Tiger Muay Thai), the intimacy of a family-run facility (Singha Muay Thai), or the exclusive feel of a limited-capacity gym with luxury amenities (Cobra Muay Thai)?
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Budget: While we haven't included pricing (as it changes seasonally), generally the smaller, traditional gyms tend to be more affordable than the larger resort-style facilities. Phuket Grappling Academy is noted for being more affordable than other grappling options.
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Training Style: Do you prefer traditional Thai methods or more modern, Western-influenced coaching? This can significantly impact your experience.
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Recovery Needs: If recovery amenities like ice baths and nutrition is important to you, we offers these on the way to Big Buddha.
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Location Preference: While all gyms on this list are accessible from MMA Guy Cafe, some like Sinbi Muay Thai and Pchai Gym require a bit more travel but offer unique benefits that make the journey worthwhile.
Pro Tip: Try Before You Commit
Most gyms offer drop-in rates or trial sessions. We recommend trying a few different gyms before committing to a longer-term package. This allows you to experience the training style, meet the coaches, and get a feel for the atmosphere.
After your training session, head over to MMA Guy Cafe for a refreshing post-workout coffee or meal. It's become a popular hangout for fighters and martial arts enthusiasts in Chalong, making it the perfect place to discuss your training experiences and connect with like-minded individuals.
Beyond the Gym: Making the Most of Your Martial Arts Journey in Phuket
Training Muay Thai or MMA in Thailand is about more than just the physical practice—it's a cultural immersion. To enhance your experience:
- Watch Live Fights: Ask us about upcoming stadium fights or Live Stream where you can watch Muay Thai and MMA in action.
- Rest and Recover: Balance intense training with adequate recovery. Phuket offers numerous massage places.
- Embrace the Culture: Learn about the traditions and rituals of Muay Thai and first of all be respectful at all times.
- Connect with Fellow Martial Artists: Places like MMA Guy Cafe are perfect for meeting other practitioners and sharing experiences.
- Explore Different Styles: With so many quality gyms in close proximity, don't be afraid to try different training styles during your stay.
Conclusion
Phuket's Chalong area offers an incredible concentration of world-class Muay Thai, MMA, and grappling facilities, with options suitable for everyone from complete beginners to professional fighters. The ten gyms highlighted in this guide—Tiger Muay Thai, Phuket Grappling Academy, Cobra Muay Thai, Phuket Chalong Muaythai, Lions MMA Club, Singha Muay Thai, Rattachai Muay Thai, Dragon Muay Thai, Sinbi Muay Thai, and Pchai Muay Thai Gym—all offer exceptional training experiences within reach of MMA Guy Cafe.
Whether you're in Phuket for a week or planning an extended training vacation, these gyms provide the perfect opportunity to learn or improve your martial arts skills in the sport's spiritual home. And when you need to refuel or relax after training, MMA Guy Cafe awaits with good food, great coffee, and the company of fellow martial arts enthusiasts.
Have you trained at any of these gyms? Share your experiences in the comments below!