Yak Yai Muay Thai immediately stood out as one of the cleaner and more organised gyms in Phuket. We tried both a group class and a one-on-one session, and the difference in quality compared to other gyms we visited was clear.

The trainers, many of whom have fight experience, adjusted drills to match each person’s level. Beginners were guided step by step, while more advanced students pushed their limits with sparring and clinch work.

The warm-ups were more structured, too, with proper circuits instead of the repetitive skipping routines you often see elsewhere.

The only drawback we found is that the gym closes on Sundays. If you’re hoping to keep a consistent daily training routine, this gap may feel disruptive, especially for shorter stays.

Aside from that, the environment was welcoming and less crowded, which gave the sessions a more focused feel. Coaches kept the energy light with plenty of interaction, yet stayed attentive to technique.

With options ranging from group classes to private pad-holder courses, you’ll find sessions tailored to your fitness and skill level.                

Coaches are friendly and very helpful

“My first muay thai session. The coaches were friendly and helpful. I had really good time here, sweat a bucket and so tired after, it’s worth the money. Would definitely recommend people to come here 😀 …”

– Isuhanas, Google Review

Will definitely be back

“Very fun experience at Yak Yai.  Did a week’s worth of sessions with Joey and group classes too.  Both were very educational and had the right amount of intensity. Will definitely be back. The gym is also super well kept and all the coaches are very good at teaching. Overall very fun environment with good people.”

– Justin Brunelle, Google Review

Sumalee Boxing Gym gave off a different vibe from many other gyms in Phuket. Tucked away in a quieter, green part of the island, the setting felt more like a retreat than a fight camp.

During our visit, the staff explained their approach, which blends Muay Thai training with wellness options such as yoga, ice baths, and nutrition counselling. It was clear they focus not only on the sport itself but also on recovery and lifestyle, which is appealing if you’re looking for balance instead of pure intensity.

The trainers available were described as highly experienced, with many years of professional fighting behind them. 

They were approachable during our conversations, answering questions with patience. They even offered examples of how they adapt training for both beginners and competitive athletes.

Facilities on-site include open-air training areas, accommodation, and a small cafe serving healthier meals, which clients spoke positively about.

The only drawback noted was around privacy. Some shared facilities, particularly in the spa and relaxation areas, felt a little too interconnected, disrupting peace and privacy.

Definitely one of the BEST Muay Thai gyms in Phuket

“I’ve been at Sumalee for two weeks now, and I really don’t want to leave ahaha. I’ve spoken to some of the people that have passed through here and they all said after trying multiple gyms in Thailand Sumalee is definitely one of the best if not the best. They have 5 very experienced and dedicated trainers. Whether you’re a beginner or want high level training this is the place for you. The atmosphere here in the camp is just welcoming and chill with zero pressure but the trainers will push you during the sessions. Sam who runs the place does an amazing job and is always available to help with whatever you might need. This is definitely one of the best things I’ve done for myself. Need a break or maybe some redirection? Sumalee is the place for you!”

– Masoud Halaimzai, Google Review

This gym feels like a home and the folks here a family

“An absolutely incredible camp, been here twice now and will be back a 3rd time for sure. A great camp for all levels, the trainers are all very welcoming and make the training fun, the staff are really friendly and the camp has a family feel to it, would recommend it to everyone. Really nice grounds with a cafe, yoga chalet, swimming pool and massage hut. Everyone that comes here falls in love with it, me included so I can’t wait to be back again.”

– Rikky Patel, Google Review

Chanrit Muay Thai Gym gave us a strong impression of what a traditional yet welcoming training space feels like. During our visit, the trainers took time to answer questions about their approach and how they adapt sessions for different skill levels.

From what we gathered, beginners are introduced to fundamentals with patience, while advanced students can push themselves with sparring, pad work, and conditioning drills. The atmosphere seemed respectful but also intense, with everyone encouraged to take training seriously.

Several people we spoke with highlighted the trainers’ supportive style. They emphasised that it wasn’t just about physical conditioning but also about learning technique in a way that sticks.

We also noted the sense of community—clients mentioned that trainers sometimes invite students to share meals, which adds a personal touch you won’t find everywhere.

The main downside is that the gym doesn’t currently maintain a website. If you want to learn more about them and plan sessions, inquiries require direct contact.

Trainers are super professional

“The best white team I can ever find in Phuket . This is the place where you can actually come here and then spend a time or two days whenever you have time just to learn about Muay Thai and this is the best Muaythai ever don’t forget to come here cause the trainer are super professional, and they are ex fighter”

– Dabraj Sing, Google Review

Learned a lot

“I had 2 private sessions here, 1 with Kubang and another with Boss? Both were good but I would recommend Kubang. He’s a great instructor. He’s very experienced and speaks good English. I highly recommend him. I learned a lot. I haven’t been for the classes here so I can’t comment but 1 to 1 is the way to go for a personalised experience + able to learn more. Also, smaller gyms > bigger commercial ones where you’re lost in a crowd of 70-100 people no joke.”

– Natasha Chuah, Google Review

The first thing to note about Southside MMA Thailand is that, while the facilities are modern and well-equipped, several clients mentioned that cleanliness and organisation could be improved. With such a busy schedule of classes, it’s easy to see how the gym fills up quickly, so you may want to keep this in mind if hygiene is a factor for you.

That aside, the overall setup is impressive. The staff walked us through the range of programmes offered—Muay Thai, BJJ, wrestling, and strength training. What stood out was how they structured classes to suit beginners, intermediates, and advanced students without lumping everyone into the same session.

The trainers have professional fight and coaching backgrounds, and their approach sounded accessible yet challenging.

Southside also offers on-site accommodation, which makes the eat, train, sleep, repeat lifestyle very achievable. You’ll also find recovery options such as ice baths and a sauna, plus a cafe serving fresh meals and smoothies.

Feedback from clients highlighted the family-like atmosphere, with both adults and children made to feel included.

Great place to sharpen up your Muay Thai skills

“A great place to learn Muay Thai or sharpen up your skills if you’re an experienced fighter. Had an amazing time training at this gym. The trainers are amazing. They actually make an effort to push you every single session and want to see you improve. I like how they incorporate the sparring session every class where you can utilise the skills you’ve just learnt. The price is also reasonable which is inclusive of ice bath and steam room, however sauna was not working while I was there. Will be back!!”

– Shiv Nadan, Google Review

Best gym to learn Muay Thai

“I spent a week in Phuket looking for a gym where I could train Muay Thai and kickboxing, and I definitely found the best one. The trainers are competent, helpful, and provide excellent training. My kids also attended the children’s classes and were well taken care of. It’s a great experience for the whole family and deserves a full 5-star rating. Thank you to the team at Southside MMA!”

– Daniel Rother, Google Review

Revolution Muay Thai Camp came across as one of the more authentic gyms when we reached out to ask about their programs. The staff who answered the call were approachable and quick to explain the training options, which range from beginner-friendly group sessions to intensive packages for fighters.

They also shared that many of their trainers are former champions, and their reputation for producing fighters who compete locally and abroad was highlighted more than once. Training packages that combine were also mentioned, giving travellers a convenient way to focus solely on their routine without worrying about logistics.

The one drawback we noticed was their website. While functional, the design feels outdated, with some confusing navigation on menus and duplicated elements at the footer.

Aside from that, the client feedback we reviewed described the atmosphere as warm and community-driven. Trainers were praised for tailoring padwork and drills to each student, making sure no one got lost in a large group.

A gym with highly skilled trainers

“Revolution is a great gym with a bunch of highly skilled trainers that are all very welcoming. They have a very spacious gym that can hold many students at a time when need be. Not to mention there is an amazing cafe right out front the gym which provides nutritious meals which are perfect for after training.”

– Chey Larner, Google Review

A team that will push you to level up

“Trained here for about a week and all the trainers here are great. They get involved and help you correct your technique but also push you to level up. I feel this gym is great not only for beginners but for professional fighters also. Everyone here is very friendly and welcoming. Thank you revolution gym for the great experience. I highly recommend this gym if you’re in this area 🙏”

– Khang Phan, Google Review