Muay Thai Workouts for Beginners

By: StacyAtZeel

How's this for dedication? When Kru Delon Nelson wanted to perfect his Muay Thai technique, this celebrated strength and conditioning specialist packed his bags and headed off to Thailand to work one-on-one with the legendary Master Toddy. Fortunately, you don't have to travel as far as Delon to test your skills in this pugilistic sport. You don't even need a passport.
When he's not training a star studded roster of clients like Chris Fowler and Vanessa Minnillo, Delon teaches Muay Thai at D&I Fitness, his household studio in Manhattan and a brand new facility in South Orange, New Jersey.

As Delon explains, Muay Thai is quickly moving into the spotlight alongside increasingly popular mixed martial art forms like UFC fighting. If you're tempted to hop on this badass bandwagon too, here's what you'll need to know.

How does Muay Thai differ from cardio kickboxing?

At the end of the day, both Muay Thai and cardio kickboxing are similar martial arts styles. Muay Thai is celebrated for its specialized techniques using elbows and knees. As students learn these movements, they advance through a gradual progression from beginner to expert to fighter.

Are Muay Thai exercises dangerous?

Muay Thai is definitely not dangerous, especially during the first few stages of training. Students work with a trained professional, using punching bags and padding in place of a partner to prevent physical injury.

What are the physical benefits of Muay Thai?

Muay Thai is a heart-pumping workout that builds cardiovascular endurance, coordination and muscular strength. The repetitious combination of punches and kicks requires total body conditioning and extreme focus, burning calories while toning your abs, arms, legs, shoulders, thighs and glutes.

Are there emotional benefits to Muay Thai training?

As Delon tells his students, Muay Thai allows you to, "Tap into your inner rage." While it isn't an angry sport, the exertion of energy in a controlled environment offers a mental release whether you're a nine-to-five business owner or 24-hour mom. It pushes you to the limit without pushing you over the edge.

How important is working with a certified Muay Thai trainer?

Certified Muay Thai trainers are able to teach proper body techniques in a safe and effective manner, demonstrating how to properly rotate, pivot, make a fist and get into the correct stance. Remember, the last thing you want is to induce an injury when your intention is to get a good workout.

For personalized Muay Thai training, performance coaching, and strength and conditioning consulting, book an appointment with Delon through Zeel. You can find him at his Manhattan-based studio or his newest facility in South Orange, New Jersey.