We booked a single Muay Thai session at Punch It Gym, and it left a solid impression. First, we love its clean, welcoming setup. 

Next, the trainers were hands-on and well-versed in both traditional and modern Muay Thai, which helped ease us into the fundamentals. They were encouraging without being overbearing, a balance we appreciated!

We also like that they offer both group and private sessions for all levels, from total beginners to pros. While we only did a drop-in session, we noticed they also have full training packages that include accommodation and meal options, which seems perfect if you’re staying longer.

Another nice touch was their health cafe next door, which is super convenient for post-workout meals or smoothies.

The only drawback was how much time the class spent on general fitness drills like running, instead of focusing more on Muay Thai. This sentiment had been voiced out by another visitor who had already tried Muay Thai twice.

We were hoping for a bit more striking practice. But overall, it was worth the visit.

Quality equipment and service

“Amazing trainers, spacious gym, good quality equipment, perfect service from the shop & the cafe next door. Why would you want to go anywhere else..? For more information on completing a camp here, or just training in Thailand in general from a tourists POV, check us out on u tube, ‘Escape With Us’ peace out!!”

Escape With Us, Google Review

Effective trainers

“Stayed for a week and attended the beginner’s class 2x a week. Learned good techniques in Muay Thai. The trainers are all friendly and good teachers! I love the cafe as well, the accomodation was nice. Would recommend! :)”

タクリス, Google Review

We dropped by Tom Muay Thai Gym in Chaweng without a reservation, and the staff immediately made us feel welcome. The gym sits atop a hill with a beautiful view and breezy atmosphere, which adds something special to the sessions.

The owner is a well-known trainer on the island, and his team consists of experienced fighters. The gym also arranges fight nights if you’re interested in competitive training! 

Whether you’re completely new to Muay Thai or already at an advanced level, there are suitable classes here, including those for kids and women.

Our class started promptly, and the instruction was clear and hands-on. They broke down techniques step by step and gave personal corrections. The vibe was casual but focused, ideal if you prefer a low-pressure setting.

We just found it iffy that most of the trainers can speak and understand English just a little. Some of them are native Russian speakers. So, if you’re relying heavily on verbal instructions, you might need to pay closer attention or ask for clarification.

Very friendly trainers

“My son trains at Tom Muay Thai after school. Tom and his trainers are very friendly and professional. All useful techniques are well tought by them. I fully recommend this place for both kids and adults to train Muay Thai. Located in the center of Chaweng and very convenient to travel to.”

Pedpim Songkasupa, Google Review

Good location

“Booked 5 private lessons and felt I really learnt a lot in the short time I was training at this gym. Great helping me with my technique and very knowledgeable. Good location in the mountain and would definitely recommend. Looking forward to returning here again one day 👊🏼 …”

Jack Newton, Google Review

Chor. Ratchawat Muay Thai in Bophut is not the biggest gym you’ll find in Koh Samui. It’s a small, street-style setup with limited and basic equipment, so if you’re used to larger, more polished gyms, this might not match your expectations.

But once we stepped inside and observed the training, the authenticity of the place made a strong impression on us. What stood out immediately was the focus on traditional Muay Thai.

The trainers here are not just instructors, they’re fighters who grew up with the sport. We watched several group sessions and one private lesson.

The teaching style was direct but friendly, with lots of corrections and encouragement. The group we saw included beginners and kids, which confirms that this gym accepts a wide skill range and different age groups.

You can book via WhatsApp or just walk in. They offer both group and private sessions, with package discounts if you’re staying long term. It’s straightforward, real-deal training with no gimmicks—just hard work and passion.

Fantastic coaches

“I tried Muay Thai here for the very first time in my life, and I had an amazing private lesson for 10 days straight. Since I had no experience at all, I was pretty nervous at the beginning, but after the very first day, I was actually excited to come back every single day. All the coaches were fantastic, and a huge thanks especially to my trainer Bird! 🙂

Big shoutout to Kruki and Malai Ngoen as well. Now I’m back home in my country, but I’m definitely going to keep training here too. I highly recommend private 1-on-1 lessons to everyone—the prices, attention, and quality of training are all amazing. I think doing 5 days in a row with 2 rest days (that’s what I did) works great, but if you have the energy, you can totally go every day!”

Cavid Bayramlı, Google Review

Great gym

“I have been training here for three days and I can confidently say this is a great gym. The trainers are all kind and genuinely want you to improve my type for The best. Definitely not a tourist trap and would recommend to anyone who wants to start Muay Thai or who is already had a good level.”

Paddy Wright, Google Review

Dowden Muay Thai Gym has a lot going for it, but one thing we immediately noticed during our visit was the inconsistency among the trainers. 

For instance, some were full of energy and incredibly hands-on, while a couple seemed less engaged during group sessions. This variation could matter if you’re hoping for consistent motivation and feedback throughout the training.

Still, the overall atmosphere at Dowden is impressive. The gym is spacious, clean, and well-equipped, with a full-size boxing ring, heavy bags, and plenty of gear from reputable brands like Fairtex and Twins.

They cater to all levels, and we saw beginners, kids, and even professional fighters training here. Booking is easy, and their shop has gear and water on hand.                      

You can join group classes twice daily or book private sessions. Their group classes are unique in that every participant gets one-on-one pad work time with the trainer, which gives the session a personalised feel even in a group setting.

Feels like a family to be here

“Trained here for 10 days both classes and private. I learned so much and both the owner, the coaches and all of the people we met. Made this feel like family. Can’t wait to come back next year”

Wendy, Google Review

Super enjoyable sessions with great coaches

“Such a lovely and welcoming gym, everyone is so kind! It was out of the way from my hotel but I came here every day during my time in Koh Samui as I enjoyed it so much. Great trainers – special shout out to Wirat! I did all my private sessions with him.”

O B, Google Review

We dropped by Jackie Muay Thai to get a closer look at what they offer, and the initial thing that stood out was the warm, no-frills vibe! The gym isn’t massive, but it has enough space for both pad work and sparring.

Classes run daily and welcome everyone, from absolute beginners to fighters preparing for matches. They offer group sessions and one-on-one training, and the head coach has a solid reputation on the island for his technical knowledge and calm, focused teaching style.

During our visit, we learned that classes typically start with warm-ups like skipping, followed by technique drills, pad work, and sparring. The gym maintains small group sizes, so you get a lot of personal feedback.

However, one downside is that some trainers speak only limited English. While the techniques are easy to demonstrate, language gaps can be frustrating if you’re someone who learns better through verbal instruction.

Awesome coaches

“Turned up here with my partner looking to drop in for a training session. Cost us 400 Baht each for a 2 hour Muay Thai class, ended up being a 1 on 1 class as we were the only ones there. Coaches were so funny and really nailed our techniques! 10/10 class and wished we were on the island for longer! They provide gloves and wraps for you as well! Thanks so much Jackie !!! Please drop in if you want to train on the island! 8-10am and 4-6pm classes !”

Jarrod McTeggart, Google Review

One of the best

“I’ve been on this island for a year and it’s not my first time … it’s for me by far one of the best camps on samui.  I was looking for traditional muay thai earlier than a tourist and commercial camp.  here they take the time to teach you correctly and above all they are very strong in technique.  you feel very comfortable and we take care of you really well.  what I appreciate the most at jackie muay thai is that we feel at home.  even better, I found my family. Thank you so much for the best customer service !!!!!!!”

Touati Diana, Google Review