Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to frequently asked questions, or ask your own!
Is Empower Muay Thai safe and welcoming for LGBTQ+ members?
Empower Muay Thai was created to provide quality, authentic Muay Thai training to those who would otherwise be excluded from traditional gyms. Not only does this include our LGBTQ+ community, we have coaches and staff who bridge that gap as members of both spaces.
Do you have women-only classes?
We offer two types of women's class: you may train in a segregated class during hours when other classes are held, or if you are more comfortable in a women-only environment, we provide a time that is an exclusive environment. Your safety is our concern.
Can I prepare to fight professionally with you?
Ajarn Eric made a choice to leave behind the pressure of what we call "meathead" gyms, We saw many potential careers compromised and many people pushed to compete at a time or in a venue that was inappropriate for them. We want people to enjoy Muay Thai, not have their bodies and minds wrecked by it. That said, we do work toward every individual Nak Muay's goal. If you work with us and hone your skills and find you want to test them in the ring, we can mentor you toward that goal.
Do your kids classes have sparring?
We do not have sparring for Recruits or Cadets, as we feel that to get the full benefit of any combat sport for a young person there should be no fear of getting hit. There is no value from teaching sparring at this age, and we feel it is counter to their healthy development to expose them to direct violence.
I have never done any sport before, and I am in my 40s. Other gyms I've seen are very intimidating. Will I be able to start from the beginning?
Do you allow sparring for adults?
We love training new Nak Muays. If you are 80 years old and spent your life on the couch, we will work with you. We are about empowerment, not intimidation or accommodating tough guys.
We allow adults to train in the skills necessary to safely spar, if they choose. That said, all potential sparring participants, whether our students or from another gym, must be evaluated for their ability to defend themselves before sparring. Sparring class is only for adults, although if youth in the Infantry program reach a high enough rank they may be allowed to point spar on a limited basis.
Do you offer cross-training?
Many of our participants are involved in other sports, and cross training is an important part of skill development. To that end, all adult Muay Thai members have access to Cardio Thai Kickboxing, Open Gym (including limited weight training,) and Sparring (once cleared by Ajarn or a Kru.)
Only youth in Infantry who have been evaluated by Kru Fred may have access to weight training, as this is a pivotal age for musculoskeletal development, and at this time for many it becomes an appropriate tool. Younger participants may take part in other, age appropriate forms of condtioning.
What do I wear to class? Do I need equipment?
Everyone has preferences for training gear. Each member is provided one free uniform shirt, howevere all we require is comfortable clothing that allows you free range of motion. You will be using all four limbs to the best of your ability. We provide loaner equipment to begin with: we don't advise that you purchase your own until you have a feel for what type you prefer. At that time we can advise you on the most cost effective choice. Youth members are required to wear the uniform shirt and shorts.
Do you teach MMA?
We do have an MMA-adjacent model. Since we aren't training people to compete, we have developed a specific model based on Defensive Tactics practices. Using techiniques found in Muay Thai, Martial Arts, boxing, and Jiu Jitsu, our Fight Back DETAC will scratch that MMA itch, as it is literally "mixed martial arts, but with practical application.
We have changing rooms with showers and shelves near the mats where you can store your gear bag.