Overview & First Impressions
Hongthong Muay Thai is one of Chiang Mai's most established and respected training gyms, founded by twin brothers and Lumpinee Stadium legends Hongthongnoi (Kru Joe) and Hongthonglek (Kru Gen). With over 700 combined professional fights between them and a reputation for technical excellence, Hongthong has become a household name in Chiang Mai's Muay Thai scene.
After 20+ years living in Chiang Mai and watching the local gym landscape evolve, I can tell you that Hongthong consistently ranks among the top choices for both serious fighters and dedicated beginners who want authentic Thai boxing instruction without the intimidating atmosphere of a hardcore fight camp.
What sets Hongthong apart is its unique "Muay Thai resort" approach. The 9,000-square-foot facility features a spacious, open-air training area with a professional ring, heavy bags, padded spaces, and modern recovery amenities including sauna, ice bath, and swimming pool. There's even a smoothie/coffee bar for post-training relaxation.
The location in Tha Sala (east of Old City on Chiang Mai-San Kam Pang Road) puts you in a quieter, greener neighborhood away from the tourist hustle while remaining close to supermarkets, local restaurants, and easy scooter access to downtown.
What immediately stands out: The family vibe. Despite producing high-level fighters who compete at Bangkok's Rajadamnern Stadium, the daily atmosphere is welcoming and accessible. The mix is typically 50% Thai fighters and 50% international students, creating an authentic yet approachable environment.
Who Should Train at Hongthong?
âś… Perfect For:
Beginners Wanting Quality Instruction
If you've never trained Muay Thai before but want to learn proper technique in a welcoming environment, Hongthong is an excellent choice. The trainers are patient, the atmosphere is non-intimidating, and you'll get individual attention even in group classes. Kru Bee and Kru Game are particularly excellent with first-timers.
Intermediate Fighters Improving Technique
Already know the basics but want to refine your skills? The technical focus here is ideal for leveling up. Private sessions with Kru Joe are particularly valuable for addressing specific weaknesses, especially in clinch work.
Clinch Enthusiasts
If you want to develop strong clinch game, this is the place in Chiang Mai. Kru Joe's Muay Khao expertise is unmatched. You'll get significantly more clinch work than at gyms focused on Western-style striking.
Long-Term Trainees (1-3 months)
The accommodation setup, community atmosphere, and monthly pricing make this ideal for extended training camps. Many students stay 2-3 months. The resort amenities (pool, sauna, ice bath) significantly aid recovery for daily training.
Women & First-Timers
Kru Bee and the overall supportive culture make this one of the most female-friendly gyms in Chiang Mai. Multiple 2025 reviews from women specifically praise the safe, encouraging environment where everyone is treated with respect.
Fight Preparation
Planning to compete in Thailand? Hongthong has the experience, connections, and training intensity to prepare you properly. They regularly corner fighters at local stadiums including Thapae and Kawila.
❌ Consider Alternatives If:
- You Want Western-Style Kickboxing: Hongthong is traditional Muay Thai with heavy clinch emphasis. If you're looking for K-1 style, heavy bag-focused training, look elsewhere.
- You Need Constant 1-on-1 Attention: While beginner-friendly, the gym can get busy during peak season (Nov-Feb). Book private sessions or visit during shoulder season if you need intensive hand-holding.
- You Want Hardcore Fight Camp Intensity: This is authentic training, but the vibe is supportive rather than brutal. If you want to be pushed to absolute limits daily, some competition-focused camps might suit better.
- Budget is Extremely Tight: At 300-400 THB per class, it's mid-range for Chiang Mai. There are cheaper options (200-250 THB) if every baht counts.
- You Want Old City Location: The east-side location requires transportation. If walking-distance-to-everything convenience is priority, consider Old City gyms.
Facilities & Equipment
Training Space
- Full-size professional boxing ring – Competition-standard ring for sparring and technique work
- 20+ heavy bags – In shaded, covered area with good ventilation
- Ample padded floor space – For shadow boxing, technique drills, and clinch work
- Open-air design – Greenery providing natural shade while maintaining airflow
- Clean, well-maintained equipment – Everything is in good working condition
Recovery & Amenities
- Traditional Thai sauna – Post-training heat therapy for muscle recovery
- Ice bath – Cold immersion therapy to reduce inflammation
- Swimming pool – Shared with accommodation, great for active recovery
- Smoothie/coffee bar – Healthy post-workout nutrition options
- Gear rental available – Gloves, shin guards, wraps (~50-100 THB)
Accommodation
- 60+ rooms within 2-minute walk – Partner accommodations integrated with gym
- Range of options – Basic rooms (6,000 THB/month) to nicer apartments (12,000 THB/month)
- All include WiFi and pool access – Convenient for long-term trainees
Facilities Assessment: The facilities are a significant step up from bare-bones traditional gyms while maintaining an authentic Thai boxing atmosphere rather than feeling like a Western fitness center. The recovery amenities (sauna, ice bath, pool) are particularly valuable for serious trainees doing daily double sessions.
Trainers & Teaching Style
Lead Trainers
Kru Joe (Hongthongnoi Rachata)
- Background: Lumpinee Stadium champion with 350+ professional fights
- Specialty: Muay Khao (clinch fighting) and technical precision
- Language: Fluent English – communicates complex techniques clearly
- Teaching Style: Patient and detail-oriented, excellent at breaking down complex techniques into digestible steps
Kru Gen (Hongthonglek)
- Background: 350+ professional fights, also runs Hongthong Australia location
- Specialty: Ring generalship and fight IQ
- Teaching Style: Encouraging and adaptive, works well with different learning styles
Kru Game
- Frequently mentioned in 2025 reviews as excellent for beginners
- Known for building muscle memory through repetition and positive reinforcement
- Patient with technical corrections, creates supportive learning environment
Kru Bee
- Standout trainer for women and first-timers
- Creates safe, supportive learning environment without pressure
- Excellent at adjusting intensity to student comfort level
What Makes Hongthong's Coaching Special
The trainers here aren't just technically skilled—they're genuinely invested in student progress. Here's what you'll get:
- Personalized Attention: Even in group classes, trainers rotate through students for 1-on-1 pad rounds. You're not just hitting bags—you're getting direct feedback.
- Technical Focus: Emphasis on proper form over power, especially for beginners. They'll correct your stance, hip rotation, and technique before letting you develop bad habits.
- Progressive Development: Clear skill progression rather than random drill selection. You'll see improvement week-over-week.
- Fight Preparation: Actual cornering experience if you want to compete. They know how to prepare fighters for real bouts.
- Cultural Authenticity: Traditional Thai Wai Kru respect ceremonies, genuine Muay Thai culture integrated into training.
Training Philosophy: Muay Khao Specialization
Hongthong specializes in Muay Khao (clinch-heavy) style, reflecting Kru Joe's legendary clinch fighting background. This means:
- Heavy emphasis on knee strikes, sweeps, and clinch control
- Traditional Thai boxing fundamentals (proper stance, balance, rhythm)
- Mix of technical drilling and conditioning
- Opportunities to attend local fights with trainers (cheap ringside tickets)
- Post-training social atmosphere – trainers and students often go to fights together
Training Schedule & Programs
Daily Schedule
Morning Session: 8:00-10:00 AM
Afternoon Session: 4:00-6:00 PM
Private Sessions: 11:00 AM-4:00 PM (by appointment)
Closed: Sundays
Typical Group Class Structure (2 hours)
- Warm-up (15-20 min): Running, skipping rope, shadow boxing to get heart rate up
- Technique Drills (20-30 min): Combinations, footwork, specific techniques for the day
- Pad Work (30-40 min): 1-on-1 rounds with trainers, personalized feedback and corrections
- Bag Work (15-20 min): Heavy bag drilling, power development, applying techniques
- Clinch Work (20-30 min): Knee strikes, sweeps, control – Hongthong specialty
- Conditioning (10-15 min): Core work, push-ups, stretching, cool down
Program Options
| Package | Price (THB) | Price (USD) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drop-In | 300-400 | $9-12 | Testing the gym, short visits |
| 1 Week Unlimited | 3,300 | $95 | Week-long intensive training (12-14 sessions) |
| 1 Month Unlimited | 8,000-10,000 | $230-290 | Serious skill development, best value per session |
| Private Lesson | 800-1,200 | $23-35 | Technical focus, addressing specific weaknesses |
All programs are adjusted to your level—whether you're stepping into a gym for the first time or preparing for a fight.
Private Lesson Recommendation: Even if you're doing group classes, book at least one private session with Kru Joe in your first week. One hour of focused technical work ($23-35) can identify and fix fundamental issues that would otherwise persist for months. His clinch instruction in particular is worth the investment.
Complete Pricing Breakdown
Training Costs
- Drop-in: 300-400 THB (slightly above Chiang Mai average of 250-350 THB)
- Weekly: 3,300 THB = 236 THB per session if you do 14 sessions (excellent value)
- Monthly: 8,000-10,000 THB = 133-166 THB per session if training 5-6 days/week (very competitive)
- Privates: 800-1,200 THB (very reasonable for Lumpinee-level instruction)
Additional Costs
- Glove rental: ~50 THB one-time (if you return them)
- Hand wraps: ~100 THB (buy and keep)
- Shin guards: Can buy on-site or bring your own
- Thai shorts: Available for purchase at gym
Accommodation (If Staying On-Site)
- Basic room: 6,000-8,000 THB/month
- AC + hot water: 8,000-10,000 THB/month
- Nicer apartment style: 10,000-12,000 THB/month
Total Monthly Budget Examples
Budget Trainee (Training 4-5x/week):
- Monthly training: 8,000 THB
- Basic accommodation: 7,000 THB
- Food (eating local): 8,000 THB
- Transport/misc: 2,000 THB
- Total: ~25,000 THB ($725/month)
Comfortable Trainee (Training 6x/week + privates):
- Monthly training: 10,000 THB
- 4 private sessions: 4,000 THB
- Nicer accommodation: 10,000 THB
- Food (mix local/Western): 12,000 THB
- Transport/misc: 3,000 THB
- Total: ~39,000 THB ($1,130/month)
Value Assessment
Given the trainer credentials (700+ combined professional fights at Lumpinee), resort-style facilities, and beginner-friendly atmosphere, Hongthong's pricing is very fair. You're paying mid-range Chiang Mai prices for top-tier instruction and significantly better amenities than most gyms.
Honest Pros & Cons
âś… Strengths
- World-Class Technical Instruction: Training under Lumpinee champions with 700+ combined fights is rare at this price point. The technical knowledge is exceptional.
- Beginner-Friendly Despite High Standards: Successfully balances authentic training with welcoming atmosphere—hard to find.
- Excellent Facilities: Sauna, ice bath, pool, and spacious training area put this ahead of most Chiang Mai gyms facility-wise.
- Strong Community & Culture: The family vibe keeps people coming back. Many plan 1 week and stay 2-3 months.
- Clinch Specialization: Best option in Northern Thailand for developing Muay Khao skills outside Bangkok fight camps.
- English-Friendly: Kru Joe's fluent English removes language barriers common at traditional Thai gyms.
- Value for Money: Fair pricing for the quality of instruction and facilities provided.
⚠️ Considerations
- Can Get Busy During Peak Season: November-February brings higher student volume. Individual attention may decrease. Solution: Book private sessions or visit March-May, Sept-Oct.
- East of Old City Location: You'll need transportation (scooter or Grab) to reach downtown nightlife and restaurants. Not ideal for walking-distance convenience.
- Air Quality Issues (March): Like all Chiang Mai, burning season (late Feb-April) brings poor air quality affecting outdoor training. Not gym-specific but worth noting.
- Less Structured Than Fight Camps: Training can feel less organized than highly structured competition camps. Typical for gyms serving mixed skill levels.
- Traditional Thai Style: If you want K-1 kickboxing, MMA cross-training, or Western-style programming, the traditional Muay Thai focus won't suit.
What People Are Saying (2024-2025)
Google Reviews (4.8/5 – 107 reviews)
TripAdvisor (4.5/5 – 14 reviews)
Reddit & Forum Feedback
Balanced Perspective
One 2022 forum review gave 6/10, noting: "Overall this gym was decent but I wouldn't return. Training felt less structured than I expected."
However, this represents less than 10% of feedback. The overwhelming consensus (90%+) is highly positive, with most criticisms focused on peak-season crowding rather than quality issues.
Comparing Hongthong to Other Chiang Mai Gyms
Hongthong vs. Santai Muay Thai
Choose Hongthong if:
- You want clinch-heavy training (Muay Khao style)
- Resort-style amenities matter (pool, sauna, ice bath)
- You prefer east-side location away from tourist areas
- English-speaking trainers are important (Kru Joe is fluent)
Choose Santai if:
- You want more isolated, retreat-style environment
- You prefer smaller, more intimate gym atmosphere
- Western-style striking training appeals more than clinch focus
Hongthong vs. Lanna Muay Thai
Choose Hongthong if:
- Beginner-friendliness is priority (more patient with first-timers)
- You want on-site accommodation convenience
- Recovery amenities matter (sauna, ice bath, pool)
- English-speaking trainers important
Choose Lanna if:
- You want traditional "locals' gym" atmosphere
- Budget is extremely tight (Lanna is cheaper)
- You don't mind more basic facilities
- Old City location is convenient for you
Location & Getting There
Location Details
Address: Tha Sala, Mueang Chiang Mai District
Neighborhood: East of Old City, 15 minutes by scooter
Nearby Landmarks: 2.9 km from Chiang Mai Railway Station
Transportation Options
From Airport
- Taxi: 150-200 THB (20-30 minutes)
- Grab: 120-150 THB (cheaper, use app)
- Songthaew (red truck): 100 THB (negotiate price first)
From Old City
- Scooter: 15 minutes (recommended, rental ~150-200 THB/day)
- Grab: 80-100 THB
- Songthaew: 60-80 THB
From Nimman
- Scooter: 20 minutes
- Grab: 100-120 THB
Neighborhood Vibe
The Tha Sala area is quieter and greener than downtown Chiang Mai. You're away from tourist crowds but still have:
- Large supermarkets within 5 minutes (Makro, Big C)
- Local restaurants and street food nearby
- Easy scooter access to Old City nightlife (15 min)
- Peaceful atmosphere ideal for training focus
Scooter Parking: Ample free parking at the gym
Transportation Recommendation: Rent a scooter for your stay (150-200 THB/day, 3,000-4,000 THB/month). The 15-minute commute gives you freedom to explore Chiang Mai while training at Hongthong. Alternatively, stay on-site to eliminate commute entirely.
Booking & Contact
Facebook: muaythaigymhongthong
Phone: +66 89 275 3188
Instagram: @hongthongmuaythai
How to Book:
- Message Facebook page with your dates and experience level
- They'll confirm availability and provide accommodation options if needed
- Arrive 15 minutes early on first day for registration and waiver
- Pay by cash or bank transfer (credit cards not always accepted)
Drop-in Policy: Walk-ins welcome, but messaging ahead is courteous and ensures space during busy periods.
What to Bring
Essential
- Hand wraps (or buy on-site for ~100 THB)
- Water bottle (refill stations available)
- Change of clothes
- Flip-flops for shower
Recommended
- Your own gloves if training 1+ week (rental available but not ideal for hygiene)
- Shin guards for sparring
- Mouthguard if doing clinch work
- Rash guard (clinch work can cause mat burn)
- Athletic tape for wrists/ankles
Optional
- Thai shorts (also sold on-site)
- Groin protector for intense clinch sessions
My Personal Take (After 20+ Years in Chiang Mai)
Hongthong represents the sweet spot many foreign trainees are looking for: authentic Thai boxing instruction without the intimidation factor.
Having watched this gym evolve over the years, what impresses me most is how they've maintained quality and culture while growing. Many gyms either stay tiny and "authentic" (but with limited facilities) or expand and lose their soul. Hongthong has somehow managed both growth and integrity.
The clinch specialization is a particular strength. If you train here for a month and don't develop significantly better Muay Khao skills, you weren't paying attention. Kru Joe's technical knowledge in the clinch is genuinely world-class—watching him break down knee strikes, sweeps, and control positions is like attending a masterclass.
The resort-style setup won't appeal to everyone. Some hardcore types prefer grittier, more "authentic" gyms. But for most people—especially digital nomads doing 1-3 month training camps—the amenities are a huge quality-of-life upgrade. Post-training ice baths and pool time aid recovery significantly when you're training 6 days a week.
Location is both pro and con. The east-side positioning means you need a scooter (or budget for daily Grabs). But the quieter neighborhood and green surroundings create better training focus than being in the Old City party zone. If I were doing a 2-month training camp, I'd choose this location over Old City for the peace and quiet.
Value-wise, it's competitive. You're paying mid-range Chiang Mai prices (8,000-10,000 THB/month) for top-tier instruction. The monthly rate for unlimited training under Lumpinee champions is genuinely fair compared to what you'd pay for similar quality elsewhere.
Who I'd Send Here:
- Beginners wanting quality instruction in welcoming atmosphere
- Intermediate fighters wanting to refine technique (especially clinch)
- Digital nomads doing 2-3 month training camps
- Women wanting safe, respectful training environment
- Anyone serious about Muay Thai but not ready for full fight camp intensity
- Clinch enthusiasts who want to develop Muay Khao game
Who I'd Steer Elsewhere:
- Hardcore fighters wanting brutal training intensity (go to proper fight camp)
- Budget backpackers (find cheaper gym and basic accommodation separately)
- People wanting walking-distance-to-everything Old City convenience
- Those seeking Western kickboxing or MMA cross-training