The Journey of Learning Muay Thai from Novice to Fighter

From France to Thailand

Baptiste's Transformational Journey into the Heart of Muay Thai

Muay Thai, the ancient martial art known as the "Art of Eight Limbs," has become a global phenomenon, attracting practitioners from all over the world who seek not only physical strength but mental resilience and spiritual growth. Among those drawn to this powerful discipline is Baptiste, a man from France who embarked on a journey to transform himself both physically and mentally. With a dream to become stronger and more confident, Baptiste started his Muay Thai training in his homeland, but his aspirations led him to Thailand, the birthplace of Muay Thai, where he sought to take his skills to the next level by stepping into the ring for a real fight. Baptiste's journey - from a novice in France to a fighter in Thailand - offers an inspiring story for anyone interested in Muay Thai and those eager to experience Thailand firsthand.

The Beginning of the Journey: Baptiste's Path to Muay Thai Mastery

Can you please introduce yourself to us?

Baptiste: "Sawasdee Khap, my name is Baptiste. I come from Nantes, France. I started training Muay Thai with the goal of fighting 2 years ago."

Baptiste shared that he began training Muay Thai two years ago with the goal of competing in a fight.

What inspired you to start learning Muay Thai?

Baptiste: "I wanted to learn Muay Thai to become physically stronger. I also wanted to gain confidence by getting out of my comfort zone. The art of Muay Thai taught me to control my harmful emotions so I don't use them externally."

Where did you start learning Muay Thai?

Baptiste: "I started at HT Muay Thai in Nantes for 7 months."

Baptiste shared that he began his Muay Thai journey at HT Muay Thai in Nantes, where he trained for 7 months.

Did you fight competitively?

Baptiste: "Yes, I had my first amateur fight in Switzerland, and I ended up winning. I was very happy with this first experience, but I wanted to expand my experience and fight in the motherland of Muay Thai, which is Thailand."

Baptiste's First Impressions of Thailand: A Warm Welcome at Dang Muay Thai Chaing Mai

Why did you want to go to Thailand?

Baptiste: "I quickly understood that I wanted to go to Thailand to discover a different culture and its beauty."

What was your first experience like in Thailand?

Baptiste: "I started with my first camp in Chiang Mai for 10 days. Chiang Mai is a beautiful place to train. I trained at a gym called Dang Muay Thai Chaing Mai. My first impression was how welcoming and family-like the atmosphere was. The trainers were incredibly knowledgeable and genuinely invested in helping you improve, whether you were a beginner or an advanced fighter. The environment was so peaceful compared to the big cities, which made it easier to focus on the training. Plus, training with people from all over the world added a special dynamic - it felt like a small international community, all united by the love for Muay Thai."

Baptiste shared that his first impression of training in Thailand was remarkable.

After that, where did you train next?

Baptiste: Baptiste: "Then I discovered my new home in Krabi early in November, where I prepared for my fight for one month."

Baptiste revealed that he found his new home in Krabi in early November, where he spent a month preparing for his fight.

Baptiste's Journey: Overcoming Challenges in Muay Thai Preparation

What were some of the challenges you faced while preparing for your fight?

Baptiste: "I arrived mentally and physically ready, so I expected the hard pace. The hardest part of my preparation was fighting through my sickness. I had to stop training for 9 days, and I was often in the dark about fighting. I had 3 fight dates moved, which was the hardest part for me."

What would you say about the mental and physical challenges of Muay Thai?

Baptiste: "It doesn't matter what physical abilities you have. Muay Thai is an opportunity to test your abilities and learn about yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally."

You’ve trained in several places. Can you tell us about your experience in Chiang Mai? Where did you train, and what was your first impression of the training there?

Baptiste: "Ah, Chiang Mai is a beautiful place to train. I trained at Dang Muay Thai Chaing Mai. My first impression was how welcoming and family-like the atmosphere was. The trainers were incredibly knowledgeable and genuinely invested in helping you improve, whether you were a beginner or an advanced fighter. The environment was so peaceful compared to the big cities, which made it easier to focus on the training."

Baptiste's Transformation: Embracing the Unique Techniques of Thai Muay Thai Training

Did you notice a difference in the training techniques you learned in Thailand compared to your training back in France? What made training in Thailand unique for you?

Baptiste: "In France, the focus is often more on physical conditioning and sparring with European-style technique. But in Thailand, the training is deeply rooted in tradition. It’s very technical—everything from how to throw a perfect teep to mastering the rhythm of Muay Thai, which is like a dance. The trainers emphasized repetition and perfection of basics, which was humbling. Also, the culture here is different, the respect for the sport, the Wai Kru, and even how trainers interact with fighters felt more personal and inspiring. Training in the heat and doing clinch work for hours really tested my endurance like nothing else before."

Baptiste performed the traditional Wai Khru ritual before his fight, paying respect to his trainers, the art of Muay Thai, and the ring, as part of the sport’s rich cultural tradition.

For those who admire your journey and would like to follow your progress, where can they find you and stay updated?

Baptiste: "You can follow my journey on Instagram - post about my training, fights, and life in Thailand there. My Instagram is @breton_deter."

This interview might reach people from all around the world. What message would you like to share with those who are considering training Muay Thai in Thailand or those who are simply curious about the sport?

Baptiste: "I would say, don’t hesitate - just go for it. Training Muay Thai in Thailand isn’t just about learning the sport, it’s about experiencing the culture and discipline that comes with it. It’s a journey that will challenge you physically and mentally but will also teach you humility, respect, and perseverance. You don’t have to be an athlete or a fighter to try it, there’s something for everyone, whether it’s fitness, self-defense, or just a love for the art. Most importantly, you’ll walk away with memories and lessons that will stay with you for life."

For someone thinking about training Muay Thai in Thailand for the first time, what advice would you give them?

Baptiste: "First, research and choose a gym that aligns with your goals - whether it’s fitness, fighting, or cultural immersion. Start preparing a bit before you go - get your cardio up, because the heat and intensity can be overwhelming at first. Don’t be afraid to start as a beginner; the trainers are patient and will guide you step by step. Also, respect the culture - it’s a big part of the experience. Lastly, pace yourself. Muay Thai training in Thailand is intense, so listen to your body and rest when needed. And most importantly, enjoy the journey - you’re about to experience something truly life-changing!"

If you're interested in starting your own Muay Thai journey, whether for fitness, self-defense, or competition, Nowmuaythai.com is the perfect resource. With detailed information on top Muay Thai gyms and training camps across Thailand, Nowmuaythai.com helps you find the right place to train and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Muay Thai.

Explore your options and begin your adventure today!