There are numerous reasons why we train in Muay Thai, some train for improving and maintaining a high level of fitness, others to enhance their knowledge and understanding of the exciting and effective martial art along with its historic roots and culture, and some to test themselves in the ring in the pressure of competition. Of course many students benefit from a combination of the reasons above or additionally from many other reasons which have a positive effect on their lives.

This article is intended for anyone who maybe interested in taking their training a step further and would like the challenge themselves in competing against others.

No one at KO is ever forced to compete as taking this step is very much a personal choice. Even so, anyone choosing to test themselves in the ring for the first time is likely to be nervous since it can be a daunting experience. What ever fears you have about this challenge are likely to be mirrored identically by your opponent so you should not feel isolated as even the worlds best fighters have had to overcome and control their fears.

If you are keen to give it a go then you will need to approach your instructor and let them know of your decision. It is advisable that you go to sparring classes to get used to applying the Muay Thai that you have learnt and this will build your confidence and help you be more prepared for your first bout. Sparring is also a good measuring stick for assessing your fitness.

The first point of competition for combatants is the N Class Interclub. These cater for novices where they can just get in to the ring and have a go. You are matched according to experience and weight and have the chance to try out your skills for 3 x 1.5 min Rounds. They are usually fast paced and can feel like they are over before they have even begun. There are no judges since there are no winners or losers in these bouts. This is the take the emphasis off power and uncontrolled aggression common in novices. Instead the format of an interclub is to promote the controlled application of your techniques and skills but in an environment which has some pressure since there will be spectators, perhaps from your friends and family watching. The referee will ensure the safety of all fighters ensuring that the bout does not get out of hand and communicate with the fighters as necessary.

When the bout is over, both fighters finish as winners having had the courage to step in the ring and will both receive medals or certificates. They are likely to both have learnt a lot about what their strength and weaknesses were and this will give them more specific things to work on in their training.

Fighters may wish to compete on a few interclubs to raise their confidence and self belief and then after that stage can decide whether to step up to the next competitive level either in the Amateurs or at C-Class.

Below is a summary of what you could expect the format of most interclub shows to be like:

  You fill in a form after a weigh in indicating your weight and experience
  You will be matched with some one of a similar weight and experience
  You may have a medical
  You will told where you are in the fight order
  You should talk to your trainer about when to start warming up
  You will be called out and will follow your trainer to your corner in the ring
  You will be wearing full protective equipment
  The referee will give you final instructions
  ROUND 1 - ACTION (You will have 3 x 1.5 min rounds to try out your Muay Thai!)

The whole experience is like no other, it is very challenging and incredibly rewarding but most importantly is extremely fun.

If you are still interested but unsure about taking part, why not go along to the next interclub show and see how it all works and support the fighters there who may return the favour for you!

Finally why not speak to other students who have fought on interclub shows as most will be very happy to answer any of your questions and tell you of their experiences. You may also post queries on the forum on the KO website.

Contributed by Steven Ryan

www.ko-kickboxing.co.uk