Home stretch of the year!  A great month to reflect on all the things we are grateful for. And of all the things I can think of to be grateful for, I am grateful to be writing this newsletter and grateful that people read it.  😌

Thanks team!

On Abundance:

Someone asked me the other day ‘How do you feel about members from your gym eventually becoming coaches themselves at other gyms, or even becoming coaches for your competitors?’

And I immediately thought ‘That’s cool—I love that.’ Not out of some arrogance about my legacy, but rather because I believe all knowledge should be free and all resources should be abundant.

‘Abundance,’ being the third TBI core value (GHAP), is how we must conduct ourselves with our knowledge, skill, patience, and relationships at TBI.

What is the opposite of abundance?  Scarcity.

Scarcity comes in different forms.  One of the most toxic ones I can think of is ‘Gatekeeping’.

The Cambridge Dictionary defines gatekeeping as ‘the act of controlling, filtering, or limiting access to resources, information, power, a community, or a cultural identity. ‘

This manifests in different ways at the gym such as cliques, avoiding being partnered up for pad holding or drilling with people you don’t know (favoritism), not asking for people’s names or even not saying ‘bye’ to everyone in a conversational circle.

In order for us to continue to be a prosperous environment that contributes to our personal growth, we must have an abundant view of our resources.  In the grand scheme of things, EVERYONE matters.

In order for us to be competent Thai boxers, we must uplift everyone to our skill level.

That’s how community works, that’s how retention works, and that’s how skill leveling works.

So say ‘hi’ and be open to training with someone new. Ask their name, ask if they need help, and if so, offer a suggestion.

Read more about our core values here:

https://thaiboxinginstitute.net/core-values-and-mission-statement/

Changes to Drop-Ins:

Thank you to everyone who has been an ambassador and to all members for your patience working with our new trial members in our new ‘drop-in’ program.  We are still trying to figure out the logistics and I am really grateful for the help and support.

*In case you missed it last month:*

So, Jonathan has been helping out with new member intake temporarily, but this week has taken a leave of absence since he is now a new father. (Congrats Jonathan!)

I’m looking for 4 to 6 members who can help out once a week with new members during our Monday and Wednesday 6 PM Intro/Beginner classes.

The role is pretty simple: Just be kind, helpful, and courteous, and help new people feel comfortable training at TBI.

You’ll work out with them and help show them how to be a good training partner. Show them how to drill with someone, hold Thai pads, understand intensity, and modulate it depending on who you’re working with.

You don’t need to coach or teach technique. It’s more about helping brand new people understand how we train together at TBI and making their first few classes a little less intimidating.

I will have the intro members arrive 10 mins before class, and I will show them around the gym and teach them the basic techniques. Then they will stretch with the class and proceed to train with you in Coach Robbie’s class.

If you’ve ever been interested in coaching at TBI, this is a great pathway toward that.

Ideally, I’d like enough people involved that everyone only has to commit to one class a week.

If this sounds like something you’d be good at and you’d like to help out, let me know!

Thank you!!

Log Attendance and Add a Profile Picture

Also from last month:

I hired an assistant to help me organize TBI in order to help provide the best experience to our members. Her name is Mary, and she will be messaging you from either the GymDesk messaging system or info@the thaiboxing institute DOT com under the title “TBI Management and Operations.”

It is super important for y’all to track your attendance in order for us to maintain our records. You can use the tablets at the front and back door to do so, or you can use your phones to log attendance.

Also, it would be super helpful if y’all can upload a picture of yourself so that we (including all the coaches, front desk, and now Mary) know who is who.

Thanks team!

TBI Holiday Party

Please join us for all-you-can-eat KBBQ at our Annual KBBQ Holiday Dinner!

Date:  Sat., Dec. 5th
Where:  Road to Seoul
1230 S Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90006
Time:  7:00 PM

Meet there or at the gym at 6:30 for carpooling!

We will have a reservation for 25 people.

There is a sign-up sheet in the back by the bathroom on our community whiteboard.

Please RSVP by signing your name.  Feel free to bring a friend, family member, partner, or SO.

Don’t be late and don’t be a flake! (We won’t get seated if you are late, and we will get charged for your seat if you flake) Thanks!!

After Party:

We’ll meet here at like 9:30-ish for post dinner hangs, come through!

Blipsy Bar

369 N Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90004

(10 min drive from restaurant)

Holiday Hours

Just a heads up for November!

We will be closed from Wednesday the 25th through Friday the 27th for Thanksgiving break. Class will resume on Saturday the 28th at 11 AM.

TBI Pullovers:

Heatwave is over and Fall is finally here!

Stay warm with our Pull-Overs. Sizes S–XL.

Our classic minimalist logo ‘Thai Boxing Institute’ is featured on the front, while the back has ‘Thai Boxing Institute-Mar Vista, CA’.

White ink on black fabric, printed on an Independent Trading Co. 80/20 cotton/polyester pre-laundered blend fleece hooded sweatshirt.

Local pickup or shipped!

🥋: $60 for hoodie

🛫: $12 for shipping

🚗: Pickup available

Venmo: @COACHVIK (last 4 digits: ‘5678’)

Zelle: info@thaiboxinginstitute.net

(Please include size, shipping cost and address if applicable)

https://the-thai-boxing-institute.gymdesk.com/product/tbi-%27minimal%27-hooded-sweatshirt/10997

Thank you!

Shirt Prices Going Up:

Starting January 2027, we will be raising shirt prices to $40 per shirt. I appreciate your understanding.

Gift Cards:

Want to give someone the gift of Muay Thai?  We now have gift cards for TBI available!

TBI gift cards are available in three amounts. Choose yours below:

$50 Gift Card | $100 Gift Card | $250 Gift Card

Thanks!

Family Discounts and Referrals:

Also, just a reminder that we offer referral credits to members.

Refer a friend who signs up and you’ll receive $25 in membership credit.

If you have a family member who joins, that member receives a $25 monthly discount on their membership.

Many Thanks!

November Curriculum

November 2–8: Boxing Defense (Shelling)

November 9–15: Double Attacks, Same Side

November 16–22: Push Kick Defense

November 23–29: Freestyle Week

On/Off Topic:

British Punk:

Been on an old-school British punk phase this month after seeing the 40-year-old band ‘The Adicts’ play live.  It was an hour-and-a-half set that was part punk rock show, part performance art and 100 percent rowdiness.  I thought the spectrum of fans was really interesting.  There were people with spiky hair, mohawks, and studded jean vests, along with families and people dressed like they were going to go clubbing afterwards.  This was also one of the few shows where I sat in the balcony due to not wanting to stand up for over 2 hours :p

What’s interesting about this style of music is that, to me, it’s sort of timeless.  It’s also incredibly ‘poppy’ and rock and roll versus what people think ‘punk’ is.  Many of these bands’ sounds are the genesis of styles of punk.

The Adicts- Let’s Go

https://youtu.be/VlF8iG2_uR4?si=vBp8iHQZT8ruENzl

The Adicts, live at Hellfest Open Air 2026 – ARTE Concert

https://youtu.be/f3_Zl9ZltHM?si=o6Jvy_0fFjzTWrTK

Buzzcocks

Bro—how are you not listening to the Buzzcocks?

Buzzcocks – Ever Fallen In Love (With Someone You Shouldn’t’ve?) (TOTP, 1978)

I love this cover of that song by Thursday.

“Ever Fallen In Love” By Thursday (Buzzcocks Cover) From Tony Hawk’s American Wasteland

https://youtu.be/n7eW5Wzj5jM?si=A6BHCYLaoMgU-1Ow

Conflict

This is more in tune with the sound people associate with what ‘punk’ is or sounds like.   ‘The Final Conflict’ is an album that is on repeat in my headphones.

Conflict – I Heard A Rumour (1989)

https://youtu.be/F1HSqjx5Yno?si=b5bclmFlgeyiIVLB

Rudimentary Peni:

OK—this is what I think punk sounds like.  Short, fast, with shouted, unintelligible lyrics.  This band is known for their schizophrenic singer who became a prolific cult artist.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nick_Blinko

Rudimentary Peni – Cosmetic Plague

https://youtu.be/PsuOeFiKoXo?si=iqUrkSyrsOEOvfO2

Discharge pioneered the style of ‘d-beat’ punk.  It’s a little more ‘metallic’ and slower than other styles of punk.

Discharge- Protest and Survive (1982)

https://youtu.be/-2ZxmNfY-gw?si=AKhkBW9ORlopdgeX

Watching Muay Thai

It’s been brought to my attention that many of you don’t watch Muay Thai?

What? Why?

One of the biggest pieces of advice I can give anyone if they want to learn Muay Thai is to watch Muay Thai.  Not MMA, not kickboxing, but Muay Thai.

This lets you examine how techniques look, and it lets you hear the language used, along with analytical insight from the commentators, which lends to the bigger picture of the sport, which is the technical function of the attacks and defenses in context to competition/fighting and furthermore ‘self-defense’.

This allows you to learn the sport faster without being in the gym practicing it.  Watching Muay Thai is a component of what I call ‘Immersive Learning’ which I cover in depth in my upcoming book ‘Thai Boxing 101 – An Introduction to the Sport of Muay Thai Boxing’ thaiboxing101.com

It’s important to watch whole fights versus clips and highlights on social media. As much as knockouts are exciting and outrageous to watch, there is nothing more satisfying to me than an evenly matched bout with technical exchanges, showmanship, and brute violence.

What to Watch?

There is Muay Thai as a sport with a uniform style of competing, but there are also different styles of competition and different rule sets… if that makes sense.

The two main schools of competition are ‘traditional’ and ‘entertainment’

Quickly summarized: Entertainment bouts, aside from title fights, are 3 rounds. Traditional Muay Thai is almost always 5 rounds, and there is way more clinch fighting, along with more nuances, such as gamblers influencing decisions.

Traditional Muay Thai (or TMT for short) is way more methodical.

Sometimes the style of fighting in TMT—the technique, the balance, and the composure—is so precise and tight, it’s like watching fine art or classical music being performed. In this ruleset, the style of fighting is strictly traditional Muay Thai, and there really is no divergence of expression of the sport. Whereas in Entertainment Muay Thai (EMT for short), the timing, pace of action, and combination of different styles of Muay Thai being exhibited create so much chaos, excitement, and unpredictability (that’s my shit).

As much as I respect TMT and the athletes bred from that style, I find it pretty dull to watch.

All these types of bouts can be found on YouTube.

If you are interested in TMT bouts, search for ‘Channel 7,’ ‘Lumpinee Stadium,’ and ‘Rajadamnern Stadium.’

For EMT, search for ‘RWS,’ ‘ONE Muay Thai,’ and ‘Max Muay Thai.’

I don’t really like watching ONE Muay Thai other than the big fights or if any Americans are on it but even then, I’ve fallen far behind. My understanding of the format is that it favors punchers and the goal is the knockout, which is the goal of all combat sports, to be honest, but I prefer when the knockouts happen from a series of techniques and setups and not through sheer brute punching force due to the use of 4 oz. MMA gloves .

RWS does both TMT and EMT in a traditional setting and i think they do it all the best. The matchups are really fun, with a mix of different fighters from all over the world, including top-tier Thai fighters all going up against each other.  The last two times I’ve been in Thailand, I’ve gone to it live and the production is so fun and the energy is pretty exciting.

Highly recommend!!

Full Fight l Somratsamee vs. Ngaoprajan l โสมรัศมี vs. เงาพระจันทร์ l RWS

https://youtu.be/73zGCiu1R0Y?si=gTBS2bDfOVim1PO-

Somratsamee is a great fighter fighting out of Manop gym, which is the gym I visit when in Chiang Mai.  Very cool, technical kicking style.

ไฟต์เต็ม Full Fight l ยอดวิชา vs. แดเนียล l Yodwicha vs. Daniel l RWS

https://youtu.be/EIC4C1EgQ-M?si=aqQqpzcQlSWHidyi

Daniel Rodriguez is considered to be top 3 in the world in that weight class.  Very exciting entertainment style with a lot of TKOs and KOs in his record.

Full Fight l Dmitry Menshikov vs Emerson Bento l ดีมิทรี เมนชิคอฟ vs เอเมอสัน เบนโต l RWS

https://youtu.be/L4fsBykZ4v8?si=u5e9bTyihjlYQkfT

This Russian dude is scary- proof that you can rely on a set of tools to be successful in the ring.

Channel 7:

MUAY THAI-Baowee Sor Gor Soongygym vs Retidetch Gor Sakoncheua

https://youtu.be/Kckp8i_WOzI?si=iaIFCoUmxnBrAYG_

I got a chance to visit the channel 7 tapings this last time in Bangkok. We were seated in the gambler section and that shit was WILD. it’s all filmed in a tv studio and you have to dress up with a collared shirt and shoes to make the presentation look classy lol.

Raja Title Fights:

Youssef Boughanem’s Most BRUTAL KO | The Sound Of That ELBOW Strikes 💥 | Boughanem vs Noppakaw

https://youtu.be/JQeoAADc35g?si=L8jMnSQPv63KKJZ6

Youssef is a great fighter who fought a lot in the last decade and a half? He has a very scary, pressing-forward, cerebral style.

Full Fight l Kumandoi vs. Khunsueklek l กุมารดอย vs. ขุนศึกเล็ก l RWS

https://youtu.be/_L3Tw3crnoY?si=5BQc6Fg9xEgnJnKd

Khunsueklek, along with his twin brother, has a very technical Muay Femur style. Probably the most emotionally cool fighters I’ve witnessed. They will come up again in the future when I cover ‘Muay Femur’ style fighters. Out of the two brothers, I think Khunsueklek is the better, although his little brother (same name with ‘noi’ appended to the name, which means ‘little or small’ in Thai) is the more popular fighter.

Lumpinee

Sam-A Gaiyanghadao vs. Panpayak Jitmuangnon | Lumpinee Stadium Championship | Full Muay Thai Fight

https://youtu.be/HdEXRKzJH_I?si=y9-n5XQzBemuJR0B

Sam-A is a legendary fighter with almost 400 fights.

Saenchai vs. Phet-Ek Sitjaopho I | Lumpinee Stadium | Full Muay Thai Fight

https://youtu.be/xVfy000zr-Y?si=shJ7VLGsdubxdpjS

Early Saenchai fighting one of another set of Muay Thai twins from the now legendary on social media gym ‘Sitjaopho Gym’ in Hua Hin (been there a few times too).

ONE:

Rodtang vs. Jonathan Haggerty | ONE Full Fight | Bringing The Belt Back Home | August 2019

https://youtu.be/FfZt2b8nzCo?si=CSYuZj8OiGc-2nBv

Jonathan Haggerty vs. Sam-A Gaiyanghadao | ONE: Full Fight | Super Series Shocker | May 2019

https://youtu.be/6PfwH-IMk9c?si=FliuUNj_EUIE2IBM

Rodtang and Jonathan Haggerty are probably the biggest exports of Muay Thai to mainstream culture.  I’m not particularly fond of their fighting styles, although they are exciting.

There was a time when ONE did Muay Thai in boxing gloves.  This is one of my favorites of that era.  Not enough people have watched this fight.  The amount of technique displayed by Nong-O in this fight needs to be studied over and over.

Nong-O vs. Fabio Pinca | Full Fight From The Archives

https://youtu.be/b-H0IwAHHAQ?si=ygAaLfejccaHZ_T4

“Everybody can be great, because everybody can serve.”

— Martin Luther King Jr., The Drum Major Instinct (1968)

The post November Newsletter appeared first on Thai Boxing Institute | Muay Thai West Los Angeles | Venice.

It’s fucking hot. I know. No, we are not ever getting A/C in the gym.

Something something, diamonds forged in heat and pressure yadda yadda, but seriously, make sure you are training smart, eating well before and after training, hydrating correctly with electrolytes, bringing an extra change of clothes and sweat towels, along with drying and airing out your equipment for the sake of sanitation.

New Coach

We’d like to congratulate Mher Z. on his shift to a coaching position. Mher has been training with us for over 3 years and has accumulated a record of 6-0 with 2 TKOs. Last year, he stepped in to help us build the teen program as assistant coach and now has moved forward to helping us with our adult program.

Coach Mher teaches Mondays 11AM All Levels and 7PM Beginners Muay Thai.

Speaking of 7PM Beginners, Coach Jordan, who previously taught that class, will be taking a few months’ hiatus to recover from an injury and minor surgery (unrelated to Muay Thai).

Let’s wish Coach Jordan a speedy recovery. We look forward to having Coach back!

As a reminder, we greatly appreciate your help in referring to our coaches as “Coaches” as a way to honor their work towards maintaining our community with their sacrifice of time and effort.

Thank you, Coaches.

New Operations Manager

I hired an assistant to help me organize TBI in order to help provide the best experience to our members. Her name is Mary, and she will be messaging you from either the GymDesk messaging system or info @ THEthaiboxinginstitute dot com under the title “TBI Management and Operations.”

It is super important for y’all to be tracking your attendance in order for us to maintain our records. You can use the tablets at the front and back door to do so, or you can use your phones to log attendance.

I have included a sign-in link to your GymDesk Member Portal on the front-page navigation of our website:

She will be periodically checking in to see how you guys are doing and what we can help you with.

Please, absolutely NO DMs or text messages to my personal number about your membership or the gym. You can text me through GymDesk or the TBI phone: 310-596-5034.

It’s very helpful to keep all correspondence to email since it’s the easiest for me to track and delegate.

Some of you have been asking how to book Coach Robbie’s 6AM classes. You can do that through GymDesk, but you have to log in. You can also use your login to cancel and reschedule bookings. Pasted markdown

Content on GymDesk

We’ve been working on moving our social media technique library over to GymDesk as well. This is especially helpful if you have no social media.

If you log into your GymDesk account, on the left-hand side there is a menu with a tab labeled “Content.” You can click on that and watch our technique videos.

YouTube

If you’re into long-form content, we also have a YouTube channel with a few videos explaining techniques and the culture behind the sport:

https://www.youtube.com/@thaiboxinginstitute

Our “Clinching 101” video (a must-watch if you are doing clinch or our clinch classes) is particularly useful:

https://youtu.be/AUGMOVZ54f0?si=dbhN9uAzGC3wVxCl

Help Needed

So, Jonathan has been helping out with new member intake temporarily, but this week has taken a leave of absence since he is now a new father. (Congrats Jonathan!)

I’m looking for 4 to 6 members who can help out once a week with new members during our Monday and Wednesday 6PM Intro/Beginner classes.

The role is pretty simple: Just be kind, helpful and courteous and help new people feel comfortable training at TBI.

You’ll work out with them and help show them how to be a good training partner. How to drill with someone, hold Thai pads, understand intensity and how to modulate it depending on who you’re working with.

You don’t need to coach or teach technique. It’s more about helping brand new people understand how we train together at TBI and making their first few classes a little less intimidating.

I will have the intro members arrive 10 mins before class and will show them around the gym and teach them the basic techniques. Then they will stretch with the class and proceed to train with you in Coach Robbie’s class.

If you’ve ever been interested in coaching at TBI, this is a great pathway towards that.

Ideally, I’d like enough people involved that everyone only has to commit to one class a week.

If this sounds like something you’d be good at and you’d like to help out, let me know!

Thank you!! Pasted markdown

Glove Shipment

Sorry y’all. Our last shipment of gloves we got were way too small. Apologies for the inconvenience and appreciate y’all’s patience.

New gloves should arrive today!

Holiday Closure

Just a heads up for November!

We will be closed from the 25th–27th for Thanksgiving break. Class will resume on Saturday the 28th at 11AM.

October Curriculum

October 5–11
Boxing Pt. 2: Long Combos

October 12–18
Dealing With a Boxer Pt. 2: Distance Closing

October 19–25
Kickboxing

October 26–November 1
Coaches’ Choice

This Month’s Influences

This month’s theme is centered around boxing, kickboxing and how to deal with this particular style that is pretty prevalent in “Western” style Muay Thai. I want to highlight some originators and contemporaries of this style along with boxers that are good at neutralizing this “kickboxing” style of Muay Thai.

Also, you did know Muay Thai has specific types of weapon specialists?

Often, powerful punchers are referred to as “Muay Mat” for their boxing prowess.

You can learn more about Muay Thai styles in our video:

5 Things You Didn’t Know About Muay Thai (Pretty Interesting!!)

https://youtu.be/yz_1YDE3AQ4?si=-dCGNM4Qs330Wi_p

Boxers in Muay Thai

We can’t talk about this topic without mentioning Ramon Dekkers. A Dutch kickboxer that fought the very best of Thailand’s Golden Era boxers. If you are training Muay Thai, you must know who Ramon Dekkers is.

Ramon Dekkers Highlights

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KH2RXZr7R-w&pp=ygUNcmFtb24gZGVra2Vycw%3D%3D

Another highlight of his, very old, but “back in the day” it was one of the most hyped pieces of digitally archived Muay Thai. I used to watch this all the time before I would go and train.

Ramon Dekkers Highlights

https://youtu.be/DujrAq83yfc?si=oOgEudBRLrMRLm-T

Dekkers against Coban, another prolific power puncher of the Golden Era. My own coach went up against him in the 90s as well. Coban punched him so hard he ruptured my trainer’s eardrum, leaving him deaf in one ear.

DEKKERS VS COBAN II

https://youtu.be/PAC05VQaM40?si=rMFvLggZyJRcGk2E

Anuwat was a powerful knockout artist in the early 2000s. I loved watching his fights and especially admired his courageous boxing style. He coaches now at his home gym, Kaewsamrit Gym, a notoriously tough gym in Bangkok.

Anuwat Kaewsamrit – The Iron Hands of Siam (Highlights)

https://youtu.be/P-TM3mDn-_8?si=KyKbduP12wk9qS3m

Rodtang Jitmuangnon, probably the most popular Muay Mat of this current generation. I personally don’t prefer ONE FC-style Muay Thai, so I’ll focus on some of his Muay Thai fights.

Rodtang Jitmuangnon Highlights – Fights Outside ONE Championship

https://youtu.be/JPOCwBXOwJs?si=feWKP3Z35PJEkiXT

He had a series of fights against Seksan that were prolific as fuck:

Rodtang vs Seksan / รถถัง จิตรเมืองนนท์ VS เสกสรร อ.ขวัญเมือง

https://youtu.be/ABRPQAOiwzs?si=nkREOeseCZnve-Cj

His fight against Tenshin under Japanese kickboxing rules is another phenomenal fight to watch. A true “styles vs. styles” clash with the exuberant, flashy style of Tenshin against Rodtang’s unrelenting grit and pressure.

Tenshin Nasukawa vs Rodtang Jitmuangnon

Tenshin highlight for exciting kickboxing:

https://youtu.be/fY8VoyJSrs0?si=EEDssndVVY6ULP6z

I am a fan of Tenshin’s style too.

Tenshin Nasukawa (那須川 天心) Extended Kickboxing Highlights

https://youtu.be/wY-Pva3aPA8?si=3cDGrBbkjwptGZKT

The next few I think do well against boxers.

Sitthichai is a Thai champion that transitioned to GLORY kickboxing and had a very dominant career as a southpaw left kicker. Very pretty, fluid style too.

Sitthichai Sitsongpeenong “Killer Kid” Lyrical Highlight

https://youtu.be/rqQWv3HsxtU?si=A0e1Vd_UCl0FobiP

These two are from FA Group, Bangkok’s premier clinch-style gym.

Yothin is a particularly dominant clinch-style fighter with a Muay Femur sensibility to it. One of my favorite boxers:

Yothin FA Group “Сlinching Highlight”

https://youtu.be/lf-w-INwGjg?si=U7MYSaJ9N8kbK1kG

All of his fights on the RWS fight series are some of the most exciting displays of Muay Thai I’ve encountered.

Highlight l Yothin F.A. Group vs Andres Unzue I RWS

https://youtu.be/MmhE1psbgkk?si=ZaXiyikyhgoz7VvN

Petchboonchu, Yothin’s stablemate and arguably one of Thailand’s most decorated fighters in the past decade. Monster clinch style.

Petchboonchu FA Group (Bor. Plaboonchu) “Muay Khao. Deadly Knee Of The Mekong”

https://youtu.be/ZLBmGpFOHCA?si=cBQE8Q3CKnVHdLJV

I’ve trained at FA Group and even recently, while in China, got the chance to train with another boxer from FA Group for the week I was in Shanghai, and I can attest to how difficult it is to clinch with them.

It feels SUFFOCATING.

Boxers That Clinch

Roberto Duran had such a cool style of inside fighting, pummeling, hand trapping and counter boxing that deserves some studying if you are to mold yourself into a great boxer:

Learn the Evil Style of Roberto Duran

https://youtu.be/73yNFaIG0Sc?si=8BGhz1KK5eJ66whX

Sidenote: While in Panama City, we unwittingly probably walked by Roberto Duran one night as our hotel was right next to his humble palace in the city. Ask me to tell you the story in person if you really want to know.

Floyd Mayweather is known to be an extremely good clincher, although he mainly uses it for defense and to shut down opponents’ counters:

Floyd Mayweather Defensive Genius (Defense Highlights) HD

https://youtu.be/bQYeSXpC244?si=516znIx5JaH7flt4

Crazy good jab too. He did an exhibition against a UK MMA fighter a few years ago that bears watching just for how easily he fucked the dude up with a LIGHTNING-fast jab.

Floyd Mayweather vs Aaron Chalmers | Full Fight Highlights

https://youtu.be/Z5fP-COM2No?si=L6cga8m0OHglJUYU

On/Off Topic

Current Culture Consumption

Music

Bands with singers that are also drummers.

It’s so impressive to sing and play such a complex instrument, especially when songs have such complex rhythm patterns. Nevermind the intense cardio shape you have to be in to be singing and playing at the same time. I think it’s special to be able to have that mix of mind-body articulation and expression.

Last month, I was able to watch a band that I’ve been listening to the last couple of years perform in LA two back-to-back weekends. Lagrimas is an LA melodic crust band with strong political views and deep LA DIY roots and have been getting better and better every time I’ve seen them perform.

One weekend they performed during the LA TACO Magazine release party and the following weekend at the notorious 1720 warehouse, headlining a contemporary (5th wave now?) screamo show.

Both shows went hard as fuck, with the 1720 show being the better of the two.

Lagrimas – Death to All Oppressors | Audiotree Live

https://youtu.be/8_gb6zOHoZ4?si=aMx6zxo3tWpq8whx

Lagrimas – they get paid for it

https://youtu.be/06bZDDjhXeI?si=QI-s1wDPtFEUCt8V

My favorite song of theirs. I think this is such a well-written song with many dynamic, tempo and style changes.

Another band from a completely different genre (metalcore) with a drummer as a singer (co-singer?) is Underoath.

A great song of theirs from their 2006 album Define the Great Line, recently re-recorded for Audiotree. This song and album especially is nostalgic to me because it was what I listened to endlessly on my MP3 player during my fight camp runs.

Underoath – Writing On The Walls

https://youtu.be/iq2mjYBXAZI?si=DLPgO7uj5x8Q2CHU

Lastly, a hardcore punk song from sound originators Hüsker Dü, sung entirely by their drummer Grant Hart. This song is from 1986 and I believe is a timeless piece of music that is still being replicated by contemporary bands.

Not an entirely complex song, but extremely catchy and well-written. The vocal melodies are the best part IMO.

Hüsker Dü – Don’t Want to Know If You Are Lonely

https://youtu.be/eoKeH7JYE48?si=XhYtWCRwAY-aiP__

Do you have any song suggestions with drummers as singers?

Send them my way!

The post October Newsletter appeared first on Thai Boxing Institute | Muay Thai West Los Angeles | Venice.

Feels like it’s been a bit since I was last in the gym. I missed the crew and appreciate all the staff, coaches, and members of TBI for maintaining the space while I was away. Thank you for allowing me the space to learn and grow into a better coach, community leader, and human being.

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Re: Panama

I took some time off to explore Panama! I hung out at Dynamite Academy, took a class and a private lesson with one of the coaches, and met the owner. It was cool to learn a bit about the history of the sport in the country, along with its competition culture. It’s always great meeting new people in the scene, creating friendships, and learning from people of all levels.

Everyone in the gym was super friendly and curious, and the warmth of the community was very apparent. Really inspiring!

Thank you to Coach Johnny and Coach Giancarlo for your hospitality and help navigating PTY.

Hopefully, I’ll see them again in the future!

https://share.google/Lln20ojKYBfxrKA4L

https://www.instagram.com/dynamiteacademypty/?hl=en

Re: TBI Goes to WKA

We went 4–3 this past weekend, with Nick getting second place in the finals and both LJ and Alexis losing in the semifinals.

It was a fun event with an interesting location and setup. I’m glad we went, as it was a great way to get seven fights in over a weekend.

Congrats to our athletes on their participation! No one got seriously hurt. We wanted better results, but sometimes that’s the way it goes. 🙂

Nonetheless, we are all still very proud of you. Competing is no easy feat.

Thank you once again to Coach Tony for your help this weekend.

Thank you to Kristy for chaperoning and providing in-person moral support.

Thank you to everyone tuning in and rooting us on from home.

Thank you to the staff at TBI for taking care of the gym while we were away.

Thank you to all the members who helped by being training partners for the team.

Thank you to 818 Boxing for your help with sparring.

And thank you to whoever I missed. Onward and forward!

Re: Cali Muay Thai — October 10

Looking for someone who wants to step up and compete locally. Preferably sans shin guards for those with three or more fights, but if anyone wants to make their debut, that works too.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DbwVvjVyC9A/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsi=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Re: Medium Shirt Preorders

Hello! We’ve been out of stock on medium shirts in these two designs for the last month, and we are finally going to put in an order. If you would like to preorder your shirt, check out the links and details below. Thank you for your patience!

TBI “Minimal” Tee

https://the-thai-boxing-institute.gymdesk.com/product/tbi-%27minimal%27-tee/10996

TBI “Think Lightly” Tee

https://the-thai-boxing-institute.gymdesk.com/product/tbi-%27think-lightly%27-tee/10995

🥋: $30 for the shirt
🛫: $7 for shipping
🚗: Pickup available

✨ PRESALE ENDS SEPTEMBER 10 (9/10) ✨

Venmo: @COACHVIK
Zelle: info@thaiboxinginstitute.net

Please include your size, shipping cost, and address, if applicable.

You can also make a credit card purchase through our website, TBImerch.com, or by clicking the “Shop” link on our site.

Re: Labor Day

We will be closed Monday, September 7, for Labor Day.

The regular schedule will resume Tuesday, September 8.

Thanks!

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September Curriculum

September 1–6: Review
September 7–13: All Kick Defenses
September 14–20: Boxing with Elbows
September 21–27: Kicking as Defense Against a Boxer
September 28–October 4: Jabbing

Since tournament season is over, we are moving away from tournament-style training and toward more foundational and exploratory learning. Check out some of the videos in the next section for influences from this month’s curriculum.

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This Month’s Influences

Karuhat Sor Supawan

A very smooth boxer from the “Golden Era” of the sport, from the 1980s to the mid-’90s. During that time, kicking was an integral part of the sport, along with its scoring. Karuhat has some of the best kick defense from that era, in my opinion. I was fortunate enough to do a seminar with him earlier this year when he was visiting Boxing Works.

Karuhat Sor Supawan “Top Master”

https://youtu.be/E2DSmvomjV4?si=vbiLXdptdAAjWTPv

Nathan Corbett

Arguably one of the best fighters to mix boxing with elbows. He has a really interesting style because it teeters more toward kickboxing territory, with the heavy use of low kicks. We had a seminar with him at TBI back in 2018, where I picked up a few technical details from his style. Nice guy!

His fight with Magnum Sakai is dope as fuck. The “Xplosion” event series, which was held in Hong Kong at that time, is full of great, high-level Muay Thai matchups.

Nathan Corbett — Carnage (KO Highlight)

https://youtu.be/FnWrM9UURhA?si=qO7bNqpu3-EExjaq

Nathan Corbett vs. Magnum Sakai

https://youtu.be/AGHyFiA75J8?si=ImxcpO7A_BuTDp3z

Buakaw

Whenever I think of kicking, I think of and always suggest Buakaw. Not modern Buakaw, but the younger Buakaw who sawed through the best kickboxing organization of the early 2000s, K-1 MAX. He was the fighter I modeled my kicking style after.

For the sake of congruence, I added a link to his fight with French-Thai boxer Jean-Charles Skarbowsky, another one of my inspirations, from Xplosion. It demonstrates the high-level matchmaking of that kickboxing organization. However, my suggestion is to watch Buakaw’s career during his K-1 MAX reign from 2004 to 2006 to see how well his traditional Muay Thai kicking style—left kicks and push kicks—neutralized the heavy boxers of that kickboxing organization during that time.

Buakaw’s Finest Moments (Knockouts & Highlights)

https://youtu.be/AbHvnKBxwi4?si=b2_WsF5UoLcgZWUO

บัวขาว Buakaw Por Pramuk vs. Jean-Charles Skarbowsky — Xplosion Hong Kong

https://youtu.be/656o5-D-WOQ?si=vqd-jW6QRUPeAdUS

Finally, when I think of jabbing, I always think of Mexican boxers. One of my favorites, and someone I model my boxing style after is Juan Manuel Márquez. Not just his jab, but his overall lead-hand use.

Also, we can’t talk about jabbing and Mexican boxing without discussing the minimumweight champion (105 lbs!), Ricardo “El Finito” López. Considered one of the finest technicians in the sport.

Juan Manuel Márquez — Dinamita (Highlight Reel)

https://youtu.be/gLGXC9czt1w?si=w9owUQzJgvEeBB0v

Ricardo “El Finito” López — Perfection (51–0–1)

https://youtu.be/I1qjTPg_oYw?si=ttNG34zJX4gJZo8T

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On/Off Topic

Current Culture Consumption

Dark Thoughts — Dark Thoughts (Full Album)

https://youtu.be/JUA1VKOT_-4?si=eS_cko42DgKcHKsJ

Saw them last month at UFO, a tiny little punk venue in DTLA.  The album is a quick little listen with no skips, but the standout songs for me are “I Won’t Say Nothing” and “Addicted to Debt.”

Wisp Covers Green Day’s “Last Night on Earth” for Like a Version

Great Green Day deep-cut cover by Zoomergaze SF band Wisp. Very romantic :’)

https://youtu.be/o1awA_EmS_o?si=2cPkCMNYN7-WnoOV

Ocean Vuong Teaches the Art of Writing (NYU Professor)

https://youtu.be/kn4r4CmWmUw?si=KJZRP3Tif41f7Mv9

I took a poetry class this past semester at SMC to improve my AI prompting (jk…). No, but seriously, I was introduced to Ocean Vuong’s work, and it’s pretty magical, I think.

My Introduction to His Work:

Night Sky with Exit Wounds

https://amzn.to/4x0TT0U

Currently Reading:

On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous: A Novel

https://amzn.to/4gEnPcZ

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Final Thought

“Grief is the metabolization of change.”

— Ross Gay, Inciting Joy: Essays

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The post September Newsletter appeared first on Thai Boxing Institute | Muay Thai West Los Angeles | Venice.

22 Years of Muay Thai

August is an interesting month. It’s still summer, but the end of the month symbolizes the end of the season…

But not so much the season, rather the symbolism behind what summer means.

Many take vacations or breaks. Some experience major life changes: births, new relationships, relocations, and separations.

Summer to me always meant play. Whether it was while I was in school, skating around the SFV and LA in 90-degree temps.

Or while in university, just a break from school.

And then finally, in my Muay Thai career.

It always felt like I would have a good fight lined up right before summer started and would take the summer off from hard training… which was always nice because my old gym felt like a brick oven during that season.

August to the gym meant our busiest time, although that changed a bit after the pandemic. This summer, though, felt like a bit of a rebound.

And finally, August was when I started training Muay Thai 22 years ago.

I want to use this as a segue to bring up the last letter of our core value acronym, GHAP, with “P” standing for Passion.

There was a time when owning the gym and even training felt like a Sisyphean task. Then came a reframe; it became an enjoyment of pushing the boulder.

Now, there is no notion of pushing a boulder.

Only being present.

Throughout all this, the common link was always finding the enjoyment of it all and keeping it playful.

The biggest motivator for me behind the last 22 years, though, has always been passion. And I kept the passion going by being playful.

Passion means showing up willingly, gladly, enthusiastically, and graciously.

Having passion despite when circumstances don’t align with these feelings.

Passion to me means, “Not giving a fuck. This is still fucking fun to me, and I’m going to get the job done to the best of my fucking ability.”

Twenty-two years later, I still love all this. It’s still so fun, playful, and rewarding, and I hope one day one of you, or many of you, will understand how I feel:

Summer forever.

USA Muay Thai Coaching and Performance Camp

My second year doing this, and its first year offering a USA Muay Thai Assistant Coaches certification.

I had so much fun training, meeting new folks, seeing old friends, and I learned a fuck ton.

It’s not often you get some of the top coaches in the USA all together in a setting meant for learning.

It was interesting to see the difference from last year to this. There was definitely an elevated sense of purpose and camaraderie that I really enjoyed.

Always trying my best to be the best coach I can possibly be to better serve my community, and I only hope to inspire you to try your hardest too.

Maybe one day I’ll have the opportunity to help Team USA at a World Championship. 🤞

TBI Goes to WKA

We have three athletes participating this year at the WKA National Tournament in beautiful Bel Air, Maryland. 😮

This is the first time TBI has ever attended this tournament, so it will be a brand-new experience for everyone…

…and I must say:

I’M VERY EXCITED.

The tournament takes place August 14–16.

Thank you to all coaches and members for your help in training our athletes!

If you’re interested in competing, please read this guide on how we approach competition.

MDL: San Diego XI

There is also an MDL going on the same weekend in San Diego.

These are great sparring events that are performed in front of an audience, and you are given feedback on your performance by the judges. It’s an excellent way to step into competition-format Muay Thai.

Check it out:

https://mdl.smoothcomp.com/en/event/32451

Please let me know if you are interested!

Core Values

Want to know our Core Values?

Around here we call them GHAP.

They’re our north star.

GRATITUDE

Appreciative of the privilege to practice Thai boxing with others within our community.

HUMILITY

An attitude of spiritual modesty and respect for the worth of the individual that comes from understanding our place in the larger order of things.

ABUNDANCE

A positive growth mindset with the goal of teamwork, success, and contributing to the community.

PASSION

Training and teaching with intention, purpose, fulfillment, high standards, and a strong work ethic.

Check them out here too!

August Curriculum

August 3–9: Fight Camp

August 10–16: Boxing Techniques for Muay Thai

August 17–23: Boxing Counters to Knees, Kicks & Push Kicks

August 24–30: Knee & Elbow Counters to Boxing

“When you truly understand one thing, you will understand ten thousand things.”

— Miyamoto Musashi, Samurai and author of The Book of Five Rings

The post August Newsletter appeared first on Thai Boxing Institute | Muay Thai West Los Angeles | Venice.

Isn’t LA in the summer great? Long days, warm nights, and bright, cool mornings. 😌

You know what makes it even better? Muay Thai. 🙂

Thanks for being so awesome, y’all!

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Re: TBI 14-Year Anniversary Celebration

Thank you to everyone that came by, to everyone that helped set up and break down, and to everyone that participated in the exhibition bouts.

It truly is an honor to provide a space for all this to happen, and it’s an even greater honor that y’all would choose TBI as your space to hang out.

I am brimming with gratitude, and I am truly inspired to keep working hard toward making everyone’s goals achievable.

Thank you!

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Re: Eat Sleep Teep 7

Congrats to Owen, LJ, and Gabriel on their participation at last month’s Eat Sleep Teep event in Ventura.

They all showed incredible heart and skill and demonstrated beautiful Muay Thai technique.

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Re: T-Shirt Giveaway

Big thank you to Teresita for helping make this possible!

Winners:

• Ivan W.
• Kris C.
• Keith C.

Please see me to collect your shirts!

Interested in TBI merch? Did you know you can purchase it online?

TBIMERCH.com

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Re: Fundraising

Thank you to everyone who has purchased the Vamos TBI tee over the last three months.

We were able to raise $250 toward helping The Immigrant Defenders Law Center (ImmDef).

Immigrant Defenders Law Center (ImmDef) is a nonprofit law firm headquartered in Los Angeles. It is recognized as the largest deportation defense organization in California, providing free legal representation and advocacy for immigrants and refugees facing the U.S. immigration system. ImmDef works to ensure due process, promote human rights, and strengthen families affected by deportation.

All profits from this shirt, until the stock is gone, will go toward organizations helping immigrant people, families, and children here in the U.S. and worldwide.

Do you have an organization we should support for the next round of fundraising?

Let us know!

Curious about the shirt?

https://the-thai-boxing-institute.gymdesk.com/product/white-%27¡vamos-tbi-’-tee/11013

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TBI Goes to WKA

We have three athletes participating this year at the WKA National Tournament in beautiful Bel Air, Maryland. 😮

This is the first time TBI has ever attended this tournament, so it will be a brand-new experience for everyone…

…and I must say:

I’M VERY EXCITED.

The tournament takes place August 14–16.

As we get closer, we’ll begin coordinating help with training these athletes. If you’d like to help, there will be a sign-up sheet on the back whiteboard.

If you’re interested in competing, please read this guide on how we approach competition:

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Re: New 6:15 AM Classes

Just some updates about Coach Robbie’s morning classes.

The classes have now been renamed Muay Thai Athletics.

The format and prerequisites remain the same:

• Minimum 3 months of consistent Muay Thai experience
• Ability to hold pads proficiently

These classes are now offered Mondays and Wednesdays only.

Friday at 6:15 AM is now an All Levels Muay Thai class.

Yes… even beginners. 🙂

Unfortunately, while updating our member management system…

It deleted everyone’s bookings.

MY BAD Y’ALL. 😭

Please take a moment to rebook your classes.

I also added a Cancel Booking function inside your GymDesk Member Portal.

By booking these classes, you agree to the Cancellation & Attendance Policy below.

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Cancellation & Attendance Policy

Because class sizes are limited and spots are reserved in advance, cancellations or reschedules must be made at least 24 hours before class.

• Late cancellation or reschedule: $20
• No-show: $40

This helps us respect our coaches’ time and allows other members the opportunity to train.

You can now cancel bookings yourself through your GymDesk Member Portal before the 24-hour window.

Late cancellations and reschedules still require an email.

I also added a GymDesk Member Portal sign-in link to the front page of our website (see attached image).

Moving forward, there will be no exceptions to these policies.

Please keep all membership correspondence to email.

No DMs about memberships, scheduling, or classes.

(Unless it’s a meme or music recommendation.)

📧 info@thaiboxinginstitute.net

Or message us through your GymDesk portal.

Thank you for working with me. I appreciate your understanding. 🙂

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Re: Discord Server

We’ll be discontinuing the Discord server this week.

Thank you to everyone who participated!

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Inclusion Statement

Did y’all know we have an Inclusion Statement?

Check it out:

I believe Muay Thai is meant for EVERYONE.

If you’re curious where TBI stands, give it a read.

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Welcoming New Members (and Maybe Current Members?)

Generally, there are two peak seasons at TBI:

• New Year’s-ish (February)
• Summer (June)

These are the times we get an influx of new people.

Whether they’re brand new to the sport, visiting on vacation, or home from school, it’s been like this since the gym opened.

It is our job as a community to help new members become acquainted with the space.

What does that mean?

Be helpful.

Not just with new members, but with each other too.

Don’t always train with only your friends.

Don’t always partner with the same people.

Mix it up.

Having friends is cool.

Making more friends and helping someone feel like they belong is next level.

Our mission statement has remained the same for years:

“We aim to provide a safe and welcoming community where members can learn effective Thai boxing techniques for self-defense, a healthy lifestyle, and improved self-confidence.”

As a current member…

• Smile.
• Say hi.
• Introduce yourself.
• Train with someone new.

Remember:

All of us, including myself, were beginners once.

As a new member…

Be proactive.

Talk.

Don’t be shy.

Say hi.

Volunteer.

Ask questions.

Talk to me or any of the coaches.

We’re all approachable.

Our faces just look like this because we’ve been punched a lot. 😅

Lastly…

I can only do so much to build community.

Hang out with each other outside the gym!

I don’t really think of TBI as just a gym.

I think of it as an institution of learning and a community of service.

The definition of community is:

A feeling of fellowship with others as a result of sharing common attitudes, interests, and goals.

That means all of us.

Not coaches.

Not members.

Not friend groups.

WE ALL ARE.

Just a gentle reminder:

Don’t be cliquey. 🙂

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Core Values

Want to know our Core Values?

Around here we call them GHAP.

They’re our north star.

Gratitude

Appreciative of the privilege to practice Thai boxing with others within our community.

Humility

An attitude of spiritual modesty and respect for the worth of the individual that comes from understanding our place in the larger order of things.

Abundance

A positive growth mindset with the goal of teamwork, success, and contributing to the community.

Passion

Training and teaching with intention, purpose, fulfillment, high standards, and a strong work ethic.

“Life is great.”

Core Values and Mission Statement

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July Curriculum

July 6–12: Flying Techniques

July 13–19: Cutting the Ring

July 20–26: Lead Weapons Only

July 27–August 2: Volleying Strikes

“The principle of mutual welfare and benefit is the guiding principle of human conduct.”
— Jigoro Kano

The post July Newsletter appeared first on Thai Boxing Institute | Muay Thai West Los Angeles | Venice.

Just some updates about Coach Robbie’s 6:15 AM classes.

First: The classes have now been renamed to “Muay Thai Athletics.” The format, as well as the prerequisites (minimum 3 months of Muay Thai experience with pad-holding proficiency), remain the same.

Second: Those classes are now only on Mondays and Wednesdays. Friday’s 6:15 AM class is now an All Levels Muay Thai class (yes, even beginners) and does not require pre-booking.

Because I had to update some stuff on our member management system, it deleted all the bookings. 😭

MY BAD Y’ALL.

So if you can kindly please rebook your classes, that would be great.

Speaking of booking and our member management system:

I have now included a “Cancel Booking” function for these Muay Thai Athletics classes, which can be found in your GymDesk Member Portal.

Just a reminder that by booking these classes, you are agreeing to the Cancellation & Attendance Policy(see below).

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Cancellation & Attendance Policy

Because class sizes are limited and spots are reserved in advance, we ask that all cancellations or reschedules be made at least 24 hours before your scheduled session.

• Late cancellation or reschedule (within 24 hours): $20 fee
• No-show: $40 fee

This helps us respect our coaches’ time and allows other members the opportunity to train. Thank you for understanding and supporting the program.

Cancellations and reschedules can be done through your GymDesk Member Portal.

Please be advised that we changed some of the language for the cancellation policy.

If you no-show, it’s a $40 fee.

Late cancellations and reschedules still require an email to be sent, but you can now cancel bookings yourself prior to the 24-hour window.

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Lastly, I have included a sign-in link to your GymDesk Member Portal on the front-page navigation of our website:

(See attached image.)

Moving forward, there will be no exceptions to these policies.

It’s very helpful to keep all correspondence to email since it’s the easiest for me to track and delegate.

Please absolutely NO DMs about your membership, these classes, or anything that isn’t some sort of meme or music recommendation.

Only emails!

info@thaiboxinginstitute.net

Or through your GymDesk portal.

Thank you for working with me and I appreciate your understanding. 🙂

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TBI 14-Year Anniversary Celebration

Please join us as we celebrate the birthday of the gym. Event is open to the public!

We will have a DJ, catered Salvadoran food, beverages (non-alcoholic and alcoholic), along with exhibition bouts during the evening.

Even if it’s your first day, first month, whatever, come through. Bring friends or come and make friends.

Date: Saturday, June 27th
Time: 6 PM – 10:00ish
Location: The Thai Boxing Institute
3831 Grand View Blvd
LA, CA 90066

I AM ALSO STILL LOOKING FOR SPARRING PARTICIPANTS.

IF YOU WANT TO DO BLINDFOLDED SPARRING HM THE FK UP!

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Help TBI!

First, I replaced all the Thai pads… then said nothing.

Second, instituted a more thorough cleaning plan…….. then said nothing.

Third, took many of y’all to compete……….. then said nothing.

Fourth, instituted 6 AM classes……………………………… then said nothing.

If you would like to further support the gym, leaving a review on Google or Yelp is greatly appreciated!

https://www.google.com/maps/place//data=!4m3!3m2!1s0x80c2ba57c1f8f8a3:0xc7e80840ebd26d78!12e1?source=g.page.m.nr._&laa=nmx-review-solicitation-recommendation-card

As always, my aim is to provide the best possible experience for our members. If there is anything you would like to share, please reach out.

Also, just a reminder that we offer referral credits to members.

Refer a friend who signs up and you’ll receive $25 in membership credit.

If you have a family member who joins, that member receives a $25 monthly discount on their membership.

Many thanks!

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That is all.

Thank you for reading 😌

Warmly,

Coach Vic

The post June Newsletter Addendum appeared first on Thai Boxing Institute | Muay Thai West Los Angeles | Venice.

What do we have here… a bit SUNSHINE it seems. And with sunshine come HOT TEMPS. And with hot temps? B.O. (Body Odor). So please read our section on hygiene to better prepare for this summer season. 😀

Also, trying to plan a few international trips (South America and Thailand for Muay Thai training and general adventure and exploration) for the fall and winter seasons. Read ahead for details.

Thank you all!

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TBI 14-Year Anniversary Celebration

Please join us as we celebrate the birthday of the gym. Event is open to the public! We will have a DJ, catered Salvadoran food, beverages (non-alcoholic and alcoholic), along with exhibition bouts during the evening.

Even if it’s your first day, first month, whatever, come through. Bring friends or come and make friends.

Date: Saturday, June 27th

Time: 6 PM – 10:00ish

Location: The Thai Boxing Institute
3831 Grand View Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90066

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Hygiene

Yooo… Summer is here.

A few friendly reminders:

• Trim your nails
• Bring an extra shirt if you know you’re a sweaty human
• Bring an extra towel if needed
• Wipe down all equipment after use

If your equipment stinks, ask me for tips on how to deodorize it. Never leave your gear in the trunk of your car or sitting in your gym bag. That’s how bacteria and odor start setting in, and once that smell takes hold, it’s very difficult to remove.

Also:

• Wear deodorant
• Hang dry your training clothes after every session
• Let your gear dry completely before storing it

For those curious, I air dry my clothes and all training gear (Best if sun dried) before putting it in my hamper. Never mix your dry clothes with your wet clothes 🙁.

I go as far as using an enzyme liquid that is used to treat odors such as cat urine (when they mark your carpet or flooring, for example). It’s called ‘Biokleen’.

Here is a short description:

Biokleen Bac-Out is an enzyme-based cleaner and deodorizer that uses live enzyme cultures to break down organic matter that causes odors and stains. It is commonly used to remove sweat, body odor, mildew smells, food stains, pet accidents, and other organic residues from clothing, training gear, mats, and household surfaces.

I use equal parts of detergent to biokleen.

Check it out:

https://amzn.to/3RVm7v4

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T-Shirt Giveaway

We’re giving away 3 shirts, y’all. Big thank you to Teresita for helping make this possible!

Reply to this email with:

• Your name
• Shirt size
• Shirt design of choice

We’ll do a random drawing and announce the winners in the next newsletter.

Good luck!

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Fourth of July Schedule

TBI will be closed Friday, July 3rd, and Saturday the 4th. Normal hours resume Monday the 6th. Go out and enjoy the sun and beach!

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New 6AM Classes

Coach Robbie has his own training program on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 6:15 AM that is now available to TBI members at no extra charge.

Due to the class being a bit specialized, here are a few things you should know about it:

• Class has a max capacity of 8 TBI members
• You will need to book the class through GymDesk scheduling
• You must agree to the Cancellation & Attendance Policy
• You must have at least 3 months of consistent membership and the ability to hold pads proficiently

Class format is as follows:

3 x 5-minute pad work rounds

Followed by:

3 strength & conditioning blocks

Training focus changes throughout the month and may include:

• Strength
• Work capacity
• Power endurance
• Athletic conditioning

Programming progresses week to week through changes in:

• Volume
• Intensity
• Tempo
• Density
• Rest periods

Exercises are built around:

• Dumbbells
• Kettlebells
• Medicine Balls
• Bodyweight Movements
• Carries
• Explosive Athletic Work

Class will be available starting Monday, June 1st!

(He gets there around 6:10 AM FYI.)

You can book the class through our schedule or your GymDesk member portal:

(You have to be logged into your gymdesk in order to see the booking links)

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Cancellation & Attendance Policy for 6AM Classes

Because class sizes are limited and spots are reserved in advance, we ask that all cancellations or reschedules be made at least 24 hours before your scheduled session.

• Late cancellation or reschedule (within 24 hours): $20 fee
• No-show without notice: $40 fee

This helps us respect our coaches’ time and allows other members the opportunity to train.

Thank you for understanding and supporting the program.

Cancellations and reschedules can be done through your GymDesk member portal.

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Label Everything

Label everything — your equipment and your names in the cubbies, please!!!

Use a whiteboard marker or a piece of tape and label your cubby.

I will be doing a cubby cleaning THIS WEEK and anything not labeled will be moved to the loaner gear section or discarded if abandoned.

If you need a cubby, talk to me!

Must have a recurring monthly membership.

Maximum two cubbies per member.

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TBI Goes to International

One of the things I enjoy most about Muay Thai is that it has allowed me to connect with people all over the world and create friendships with people from all corners of the world through the practice of the sport.

No matter what race, religion, language, culture… We are all united through Muay Thai, and that’s the kind of shit that I fuck with.

I try and expose as many TBI members to this culture, so here are a few opportunities.

I’m trying to visit friends in Chile over at:

https://www.instagram.com/p/DY27osTkdUn/?img_index=1

Chile has a very good and competitive Muay Thai scene. A really interesting culture and also Easter Island… 🙂

I speak Spanish, so the language barrier won’t be too difficult.

Another opportunity is going to Chiang Mai around X-mas break. I’ve gone every winter the last two years and have had a blast. Usually training at Manop/Yokkao gym, this time around staying in the city and hanging out at manasak and sit thailand gym.

Do you want to go? Let me know! Be prepared to work out hard!

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Core Values

Just a gentle reminder of our Core Values of TBI. ‘GHAP,’ as it’s referred to, is our north star and why I think TBI succeeds at being one of the best places to learn Muay Thai in all of LA.

“GHAP”

Gratitude: appreciative of the privilege to practice Thai boxing with others within our community.

Humility is an attitude of spiritual modesty and respect for the worth of the individual that comes from understanding our place in the larger order of things.

Abundance: A positive growth mindset with a goal towards achieving teamwork success and contributing to the community.

Passion: All members within the community train and teach with a sense of intention, purpose, and fulfillment, along with a commitment to high standards and a strong work ethic.

“Life is great.”

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A Fighting Legacy

Did you know Adam is also a long-time member of TBI, artist (@outofstep.art), TBI Comp Team sponsor, and now filmmaker?

His Muay Thai documentary is available through streaming on Amazon Prime!

‘A Fighting Legacy uncovers how a 700-year-old Thai fighting art took root in the American Midwest, following the pioneer who brought it to the United States and the community built around the largest full-contact fighting event in the Western Hemisphere.’

You can support Adam through renting/buying his doc, but also by rating and leaving a review!

Peep the link below to check out his doc and help support Adam!

https://amzn.to/4dBG1Eh

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June 2026 Curriculum

June 1 – June 7
All Feints

June 8 – June 14
Clinch

June 15 – June 21
All Elbows

June 22 – June 28
Knees

June 29 – July 5
Clinch Review

“To know oneself is to study oneself in action with another person.”

— Bruce Lee

The post June Newsletter appeared first on Thai Boxing Institute | Muay Thai West Los Angeles | Venice.

I posted a video preview of the book on our YouTube channel. Check it out:

(The TBI YouTube Channel is also an excellent resource for all things Muay Thai. Subscribe if you haven’t!
https://www.youtube.com/@thaiboxinginstitute)

We’ve included the use of QR codes to give video demonstrations of the techniques that will accompany the text. This sort of technology hasn’t really been used in the Muay Thai space, and we’re happy to give y’all a preview of what it will look like.

Aside from techniques, the book will also cover more abstract concepts that I teach in our school, such as visualization and developing your proprioception to help refine your targeting and aim. The sample video in the link above covers this. Check it out!

Our upcoming book, Thai Boxing 101: An Introduction to the Sport of Muay Thai, will cover all the introductory aspects of the sport, including technique, gear selection, finding a proper school, as well as cultural aspects of Muay Thai in Thailand, the U.S., and around the world.

I believe it will be one of the most modern and comprehensive texts on Muay Thai.

The final text will include around 40 different videos covering all the techniques and concepts from the book.

Get on the mailing list:

New YouTube Video / Book Previewhttps://www.thaiboxing101.com

The post New YouTube Video / Book Preview appeared first on Thai Boxing Institute | Muay Thai West Los Angeles | Venice.

Coach Vic just saying a quick “Hi!” and dropping some TBI news. Thanks for reading!

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14 Years of TBI

This past month, we celebrated 14 years of being a business in Los Angeles.

Not only have we sustained ourselves as West Los Angeles’s only Muay Thai school, but we have continued to grow throughout the decades in square footage (although we keep the space as small as functionally and comfortably possible to allow everyone to get to know each other), but also in global reach.

5K Instagram followers, 30K+ YouTube subscribers, a Muay Thai textbook being published this year, and awards from Thailand’s “Sports Authority and Tourism” Board certifying us as an “Authentic Muay Thai School” are some examples of the qualifications we’ve collected in the last few years.

TBI has also produced dozens of athletes, many of whom have competed and won championships locally, nationally, and internationally, along with creating sought-after and highly educated coaches who go on to create martial arts as their career.

But besides all that, what I like to say is that TBI is creating “Champions of our Community.”

Members who have been training with us since we first opened, as well as children and families that have grown up alongside us, and all the people that have reached and exceeded their goals.

This is what motivates us to continue doing what we are doing.

No easy task, but certainly possible with a lot of help from our very awesome and thoughtful community members, which includes our most excellent coaching staff and administrative staff.

Thank you all for the 14 years of support. Appreciate you all immensely!

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TBI 14-Year Anniversary Celebration

Please join us as we celebrate the birthday of the gym. Event is open to the public! We will have a DJ, catered Salvadoran food, beverages (non-alcoholic and alcoholic), along with exhibition bouts during the evening.

Even if it’s your first day, first month, whatever, come through. Bring friends or come and make friends.

Date: Saturday, June 27th
Time: 6 PM – 10:00ish
Location: The Thai Boxing Institute
3831 Grand View Blvd
LA, CA 90066

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Closed Memorial Day Weekend

We will be closed Memorial Day weekend, Saturday the 23rd through Monday the 25th.

Appreciate the understanding and hope you enjoy the weekend!

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New 6AM Classes

Coach Robbie has his own training program on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 6:15 AM that is now available to TBI members at no extra charge.

Due to the class being a bit specialized, here are a few things you should know about it:

• Class has a max capacity of 8 TBI members
• You will need to book the class through GymDesk scheduling
• You must agree to the Cancellation & Attendance Policy
• You must have at least 3 months of consistent membership and the ability to hold pads proficiently

Class format is as follows:

3 x 5-minute pad work rounds

Followed by:

3 strength & conditioning blocks

Training focus changes throughout the month and may include:

• Strength
• Work capacity
• Power endurance
• Athletic conditioning

Programming progresses week to week through changes in:

• Volume
• Intensity
• Tempo
• Density
• Rest periods

Exercises are built around:

• Dumbbells
• Kettlebells
• Medicine balls
• Bodyweight movements
• Carries
• Explosive athletic work

Class will be available starting Monday, June 1st!
(He gets there around 6:10 AM FYI)

You can book the class through our schedule or your GymDesk member portal:

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Cancellation & Attendance Policy for 6AM Classes

Because class sizes are limited and spots are reserved in advance, we ask that all cancellations or reschedules be made at least 24 hours before your scheduled session.

• Late cancellation or reschedule (within 24 hours): $20 fee
• No-show without notice: $40 fee

This helps us respect our coaches’ time and allows other members the opportunity to train. Thank you for understanding and supporting the program.

Cancellations and reschedules can be done through your GymDesk member portal.

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New YouTube Video / Book Preview

Did you know that a TBI Muay Thai textbook is being worked on and is close to completion?

I posted a video preview of the book on our YouTube channel. Check it out:

(The TBI YouTube Channel is also an excellent resource for all things Muay Thai. Subscribe if you haven’t!
https://www.youtube.com/@thaiboxinginstitute)

We’ve included the use of QR codes to give video demonstrations of the techniques that will accompany the text. This sort of technology hasn’t really been used in the Muay Thai space, and we’re happy to give y’all a preview of what it will look like.

Aside from techniques, the book will also cover more abstract concepts that I teach in our school, such as visualization and developing your proprioception to help refine your targeting and aim. The sample video in the link above covers this. Check it out!

Our upcoming book, Thai Boxing 101: An Introduction to the Sport of Muay Thai, will cover all the introductory aspects of the sport, including technique, gear selection, finding a proper school, as well as cultural aspects of Muay Thai in Thailand, the U.S., and around the world.

I believe it will be one of the most modern and comprehensive texts on Muay Thai.

The final text will include around 40 different videos covering all the techniques and concepts from the book.

Get on the mailing list:

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Thank you again for your continued support. Hope to see you on the mats!

Warmly,

Coach Vic

The post 14 Years of Muay Thai in Mar Vista + New 6AM Classes appeared first on Thai Boxing Institute | Muay Thai West Los Angeles | Venice.

Short little one this month. Thank you all for reading!

Re: China

I don’t know if y’all heard, but… I WAS IN CHINA. For two-ish weeks. TBH, I didn’t know a whole lot about China, but was always curious about visiting.  It was interesting to see the difference between the propaganda that we are fed versus the reality.

China was filled with some of the friendliest, incredibly kind, (mostly) patient, helpful, and understanding people I’ve encountered in my travels.

It was an incredibly modern place, completely insular, and although I don’t speak any Mandarin, I was always able to get by with a bit of pointing, translation apps, smiles, laughter, and gratitude for the help — the last couple being universal expressions IMO.

Speaking of universal languages, connecting with the local Muay Thai community helped me navigate the cities and understand the cultures more. I got to train in the three different cities I went to: BW House in Shanghai, Top of Siam in Xi’an, and Fight Capital in Beijing. All great places with really cool trainers and locals.

Thank you to all the coaches holding it down while I was away, and to everyone who helped maintain our space while I’m out learning and exploring. Much appreciated. 🙂

Re: Member Appreciation Day

Thank you to everyone who came by! Had a blast hanging out with everyone, and we (the coaches) do appreciate having such cool, kind, and sweet members who allow us to pursue our passion for teaching and training the sport of Muay Thai.

Individual portraits, group shots, and candid photos coming soon to your inbox.

New YouTube Video / Book Preview

I posted a video preview of the book on our YouTube channel — check it out:
https://youtu.be/IiGY6_QyqYk?si=JfcLDXWhZGU1S_vY

(Subscribe if you haven’t: https://www.youtube.com/@thaiboxinginstitute)

We’ve included the use of QR codes to give video demonstrations of the techniques that will accompany the text. This sort of technology hasn’t really been used in the Muay Thai space, and we’re happy to give y’all a preview of what it will look like.

Aside from techniques, the book will also cover more abstract concepts that I teach in our school, such as visualization and developing your proprioception to help refine your targeting and aim. The sample video in the link above covers this — check it out!

Our upcoming book, Thai Boxing 101: An Introduction to the Sport of Muay Thai, will cover all the introductory aspects of the sport, including technique, gear selection, finding a proper school, as well as cultural aspects of Muay Thai in Thailand, the U.S., and around the world.

I believe it will be one of the most modern and comprehensive texts on Muay Thai.

The final text will include around 40 different videos covering all the techniques and concepts from the book.

Get on the mailing list:
https://www.thaiboxing101.com

TBI 14-Year Anniversary

Thank you all for the 14 years of support. Appreciate you all immensely!

Please join us as we celebrate the birthday of the gym. Event is open to the public, and we will have food and beverages (non-alcoholic and alcoholic).

Even if it’s your first day, first month, whatever — come through. Bring friends or come and make friends.

Freshly made pupusas by @centinelapupusas from 6–8:30 PM.

Looking for people to spar — it’s tradition every year that we do exhibition bouts between members. Super friendly, no winner/no knockouts, safe, moderated sparring in front of the party.

Great way to get a taste of what competing is like. Talk to me if you’re interested or sign up on the whiteboard near the bathroom with your name and weight.

Date: Saturday, June 27th
Time: 6 PM – 10:00ish
Location: The Thai Boxing Institute, 3831 Grand View Blvd, LA, CA 90066

Reminder to Label Everything

Label everything!! All of your equipment and your names in the cubbies.

If you need a cubby, talk to me. Must have a recurring monthly membership. Max two cubbies per member.

Closed Memorial Day Weekend

We will be closed Memorial Day weekend — Saturday the 23rd through Monday the 25th.

Appreciate the understanding and hope you enjoy the weekend!

Upcoming Events

If you are interested in competing:

Full Contact
WKA US National Championships 2026
Aug 13–16, 2026
APG Federal Credit Union Arena, Harford Community College
https://www.kihapp.com/tournaments/24173-wka-us-national-championships-2026

I’ve never done this one but am curious about it — willing to take one person, maybe two, if you’re interested. I’ll be doing some research for my next book.

Semi Contact
Eat Sleep Teep
Saturday, June 13th
https://www.instagram.com/p/DVhXGMmE04D/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
https://eatsleepteep.com/events

Interested in competing? Read this before asking questions:
https://thaiboxinginstitute.net/2022/01/19/2022-competition-and-development-team/

Re: Community Cohesion

One more month of bumping this:
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DWm65aWDzQf/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

We know learning the sport is a team effort built on trust and familiarity. Help us be a tighter team by saying hi/bye or introducing yourself to others.

As a long-standing member:
Be kind, smile, and say hi to anyone you don’t know. Ask their name.
Be open to working with new partners in drills, sparring, and classes.

We were all beginners at one point.

As a new member:
Be proactive. Talk, say hi, get involved.
Ask questions and connect with the coaches — we are approachable.

We do appreciate being called “Coach” rather than first names. It helps maintain boundaries and respect for the work that goes into running the gym.

Thank you for helping make TBI a great place to train.

Re: New TBI Shirts

A few extra sizes left S–XXL!

$30 shirts (XXL +$5)
$7 shipping
Curbside pick-up available

Venmo: @COACHVIK
Zelle: info@thaiboxinginstitute.net
(Include size, shipping cost, and address if needed.)

Or purchase by card: TBImerch.com

https://the-thai-boxing-institute.gymdesk.com/product/tbi-t-shirt-contest-winner/114546

A Word From Our Sponsor

Leis by Jewles — Mother’s Day is coming up.

It’s not too late to order flowers. Free local delivery available. Custom graduation leis also available.

Instagram: @leisbyjewles
Website: www.leisbyjewles.com

May Curriculum
5/4–5/9 Feinting the push kick
5/11–5/16 Body shots
5/18–5/23 Kickboxing
5/25–5/30 Evading strikes (body movement + head movement review)

“Success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice…” — Pelé

The post May Newsletter appeared first on Thai Boxing Institute | Muay Thai West Los Angeles | Venice.